#<- had a conversation that made her optimistic about the future and ready to better herself

[zeta-male]

why is having to show my supervisor anything i've written the most embarrassing thing in the world

[blaxcunicorn]

Diaboli 's angelus

Chapter 11

Lenght: 5.7k

Content: fem!reader, angst, lmk if I missed anything

Authors note: I'm just going to drop chapter 11 (lets forget that I made the goal of finishing the story this summer heheh)

Tag: @okaystopwhore

Zeke was intrigued, almost static of the view of his brother. He has never seen Eren this pathetic. Growing up his brother received everything he laid his eyes on. That was until now, that one thing he couldn’t have was you. Zeke wanted to burst out of the view of his brother watching you and Johan seated on the flower bed from his chamber. The very same flower bed he had planted right before your arrival. Your husband is now forced to watch you sit there laughing with another man. Zeke had he wonderful wife to thank. Soon after her exposure to Eren and Mikasa’s secret, she decided to dig the dagger deeper by inviting over that one person who could make the matter worse. That one person who is loyal to you and to you only, the one who wouldn’t fear getting beheaded by the Eldian King for you, the only person who can make the most powerful man feel…weak.

Eren knew since the farewell after the wedding that your relationship with the knight wasn’t fully professional. Daisy tried to explain that there was nothing for him to worry about, that the two of you were just childhood friends. However, the way Johan’s blue eyes are looking at you as you smile as the two of you are catching up. That’s not the look you give your childhood friend but rather a…lover. 

This was perfect for Zeke almost comical. With the current instability in your marriage, you might flee Eldia with Johan which will force the Council to dethrone Eren. Zeke is too optimistic, you wouldn’t put Capri’s future in jeopardy just for a man, even if he was Johan. However, seeing Eren like this was amusing enough. Eren was forced to watch someone have something that belonged to him, being in a position that was supposed to be his. Feeling powerless to do anything about it. Now he knows what Zeke has felt almost his whole life.

Mikasa lightly puts her shoulder gently on her baby's father’s shoulder. “At least she seems happier” she whispered, trying to lighten his mood. “I know…but did you know that she let him sleep in the room in the great hall? Those rooms are reserved for honourable guests.” Eren muttered not looking once at Mikasa. “Well, he is her childhood friend and once her knight. He is an honourable guest in her eyes, although he is just a knight” Mikasa says. Although it pained her to see Eren in agony, however, the view of you lying on your back laughing to tears still warmed her. It was the first time in months they’ve seen you this vibrant…this alive. 

“I know…you know that Historia reported that she hasn’t been with Y/n for quite some time. She sees her to get her ready for the day. After that, she’d rush out with Daisy to meet up with him.” Mikasa closes her eyes, taking in a deep breath. She knew but never reported it to Eren as she didn’t wish for the matter to get worse. It’s not a good look at you, spending all your time with Johan. Pushing Eren to further insanity. Eren knows way better than anyone that stripping Johan from you would push you further away from him and closer to the Caprian man. Mikasa believed that after your conversation, you and Eren would be in a better situation. However, it seems like nothing has changed…what is taking so long? Mikasa remembers seeing Eren leave your chamber several times during the evening. She was confused, but you admitted that morning to the women that you were too tired of your day adventures with Johan to spend the evening with Eren. Mikasa knew that Pieck must be the one behind this. It was too convenient that Johan, Eren’s biggest threat came for a visit right after the rift between the two of you. “Eren, you two will get through this.” He only nods, watching you drag him inside the castle. You must be freezing since the sun was setting. Eren shakes his head, knowing that you never bring an extra jacket when venturing outside.

You dragged Johan through the hallway to your library chamber, missing the concerning eyes of your ladies. “Wow, this is way larger than the one back home.” Johan walked around amazed at the construction of this library, it pained him a bit knowing that he could never afford to give you something like this. You sat down on the sofa and patted the seat inviting him to sit next to you. You took a deep breath, which Johan understood meant business. “You’re probably wondering why I’m here?” You nod “Don’t get me wrong, I’m happy to see you, but who invited you?”

“You friend, Lady Pieck.” You raised one eyebrow. “Why did she invite you?”

“She told me the baby…” That sentence felt like a punch in the guts. You quickly grabbed the fan on the table and waved it to try and dry the tears peaking out of your burning eyes. “How you keeping up Y/n?” He placed his hand on your knee stroking it in comfort. “I-, oh Gods” and there you sat just bursting out in front of Johan. Everything you tried to hold back the past months streamed out of you like a river. “I-I’ve been trying to keep myself together for the sake of Capri, and I’ve had a conversation with Mikasa…” You stopped yourself as nothing came out but cries. “Her face haunts me…she hasn’t done anything wrong but it does. Her face plagues me in my dreams, and her voice reminds me that I would never be enough…I can’t even do one simple task…” 

“Stop!” The firmness in his voice made you jump. “Y/n you are more than some breeding cow. You’re amazing, caring, smart, funny and hell with him if he can’t see past that.” 

“Johan…It’s a bit more complicated than that.”

“I know.”

“I have duties to fulfil” you whispered.

“I know, but do you want to do any of this? Are you happy?” He whispered the last part. That felt like a slap in the face. You’ve lived a wealthy life, you had more than enough food on the table, books every bookworm could dream of, a powerful husband that would turn the world upside down to bring a smile on your face…but you were poor when it came to one thing…freedom. You never had a choice on what your future would be like. Since you could remember you were spoonfed that your job was to marry a powerful heir and bear his children. 

“I was happy but now I’m just content.” You weren’t lying. Before the baby-scandal Eren did make you happy. The conversation with Mikasa gave you hope in saving your marriage. You were positive that the two of you could make it work, especially with your new extended family. 

“Y/n…you deserve more than just contentment.”

This was not going to end well. 

“Johan…I-”

“You were happier back home, with your family, with your subjects…with me.”

You don’t want to hear it

“I was in pure agony when I had to watch you getting sold off to him.” The hand that was holding the fan was shaking so badly that Johan held it with both hands to calm you down. 

“I agreed upon the marriage, because…” You stopped yourself. Knowing that the answer won’t satisfy Johan. 

“Because he treated you nicely that night and because it’s the best for Capri.” He finished, his eyes were screaming pity. You took a deep shaken breath trying to fight your stingy eyes. 

“Johan please I don’t wish to discuss this further” you whispered. 

Johan took a deep breath and looked into your soft brown eyes “Y/n, I’ve known since we were young that the idea of the two of us being together is unrealistic. I-I’ve been told since I could remember that you’d leave my side for a man with more power…” Nothing came out of you but sniffs, the tears you tried to control, escaped and your forehead felt heavy.

“However, I never stopped dreaming about a life with you. A life far away from everything where you could be free and happy.” Your eyes widen as you are stunned. Johan had feelings for you all this time? What would your life have been like if the two of you weren’t born in your roles? Would you’ve been married? You end little daydream as guilt starts eating you from the inside. 

“I love him, Johan” was all you could say. Johan was in disbelief, “you do?”. You nod “Gods I do Johan. Our marriage is far from perfect but he tries his best and his best is all I wish for and it's more than enough. His best is beautiful.” You thought of the garden he rebuilt for you. “Kind”, the gifts sent with Armin to your family. “Thoughtful”, he knew how much you loved to read from the night of the ball so he gifted you his mother’s favourite poetry books on love and updated the royal library. “Lastly, he’s understandable”, your final thought landed on the fact that Eren faced his fear and gave you the freedom to roam around outside the castle walls and even came with you. Your heart warmed at the thought of Eren and that’s when the realisation hit you.

“Johan, I wasn’t happy…I am happy. We are far from perfect but he makes me so happy and I know he feels the same…I’m sorry.” Johan realised that he underestimated your marriage and more importantly your decision in marrying Eren. The glow in your eyes and your smile made him see that there was a deep love you had for the Eldian King. A deep love you didn’t have for him. The brightening in your eyes was something he hadn’t seen in a while, you looked youthful. You looked as beautiful as you were the day he met you before the world cruelly stole your parents from you. “I see…I’m happy that you’ve found love. I’ll leave before afternoon” He said letting go of your hand.

Your conversation sounded like a low murmur on the other side of the door. Eren was standing there with his fists clenched at his sides. The light from the crack under the door flickered, casting shadows on the polished floor. His jaw tightened as he listened to the low sounds of you and Johan. He pushed open the door with full force and both heads turned toward him. “What are you doing with my wife this late…alone?” You quickly turned to the clock on the wall, it was 12:30 am. “My apologies your Majesty, Her Majesty and I were just catching up…” Eren took a step closer, the firelight casting long shadows across his face, highlighting the intensity in his green eyes. “There are proper hours for such conversation. This,” he gestured to the darkened windows, “is not one of them.”

“My apologies, I’ll leave before tomorrow afternoon.” Johan bowed leaving the two of you alone in the library. You stood up from the sofa and approached your husband. “I went to your chamber and your ladies told me that you weren't there. I thought something happened to you so I ran around searching for you. Only to find you spending the night with another man, are we that far gone?” He whispered. Guilt washed over you as you realised how it might’ve looked like for Eren, “No…I’m sorry. I lost track of time, it was inappropriate.” You said calmly, gently locking your fingers in his. His face is unreadable but his eyes softened. “D-do you still wish to spend the evening with me? Only if you aren’t too tired” you whispered. Eren gave you a soft smile, which you took as a yes. The two of you didn’t have to mutter any more words as your eyes spoke for you, saying the beautiful sentence I’m sorry for the pain I put you through. You led him to your chamber never letting go of his hand. 

That night the two of you were intimate in all ways but sex. “Did you ever love Mikasa?” You asked out of curiosity. “I did when I was younger, however, Levi pulled me to the side and gave me a reality check. Since then I don’t know…my feelings just faded and I was just intimate with her out of habit.” He said. The two of you were spooning in bed just talking. “Since we are on the topic, you and Johan?” You were quiet for a moment not knowing how to answer the question. “It's complicated…I do love him, I view him as a brother. However…I don’t want to lie and tell you that it goes both ways…” You felt Eren hold you tighter around your waist. You put your hand gently over his to calm his nerves a bit. “Johan always wishes me well…”

“Do you love him?” Eren cuts you. You turned around and cupped both his cheeks “I love you more and I married you. I chose you, and I’d do it again and again…I had some feelings for him but they weakened the second I met you…Eren, there is no man standing next to you. It’s only you, even if you ever left me. I won’t be able to love anyone the way I love you.” You leaned over and kissed him, this was your first kiss in months. However, Eren broke the kiss and left the room immediately leaving you confused…Has he not forgiven you?

It’s been a week since the incident in your chamber, Eren still visits you, he even stays the full night. Maybe what you said upset him enough to storm out that night. The idea of you potentially having small feelings for another man. Your train of thought ended as you lost your breath for a second. “Apologies your Majesty” Historia yelped as she tried to tighten your corset. Your boobs were almost pouring out of the corset. “Seems like we need to buy you new corsets.” You look down at your body, you’ve gained weight since moving to Marley. “It’s probably the diet, Your Majesty. In Capri, your diet consists of mainly greens and seafood whilst here in Eldia we eat mostly root vegetables and meat. His Majesty was told by Hanji that it might cause you to…gain weight, but if I can be completely honest you look even more beautiful a-and you have gotten this  amazing glow that radiance the whole room.” All the other ladies nod including Daisy, if Daisy agrees then it must be true. “Thank you, Historia.” You smile looking at the mirror, your hips have gotten fuller, and so have your breasts. However, you felt more like a…woman. 

You decided to spend the day outside in your garden playing with little Carla on your lap. Mikasa had to run some errands and gather equipment for Historia to make you a new dress. Mikasa tends to disappear a lot, however, you never really questioned it. You just finished making Carla a flower crown, she giggled as you put it on her head. The two of you were accompanied by your ladies who helped you gather the flowers for the crown. Eren instructed them to keep you company as often as possible, in fear that loneliness might drive you to run away with Johan. He smiles at the sight of you smiling at a giggling Carla. It warmed his heart to see his family getting along. He then turned around and landed a hit on Connie who didn’t think he was paying any attention. “Your Majesty!” He heard Daisy gasp as she held onto you with her dear life. You had fainted, luckily Historia managed to catch Carla before she landed on the ground. Eren dropped his equipment and ran over to the ladies carrying you in a bridal position. “What happened?!” His anxiety was getting the best out of him. “W-we don’t know, s-she just fainted.” Daisy nervously whispers tearing up. Eren made no time to respond as he carried you to Hange. He rushed to their office “Hange!” he shouted. Hange’s eyes widened as they saw who he was carrying. “Lay her on the bed quickly!”. Hange offered Eren to leave but he refused to leave your side. “I see” Hange giggled. Eren’s eyes widen at the sight of the doctor laughing. Have they gone insane? My wife is lying unconscious in front of us. “Your Majesty, would you like to name them Sawney or Bean?” They smiled. “Huh?” Was all Eren could mutter. “Congratulations, the Gods have blessed us with an heir.” Hange’s smile vanished as her king looked almost sad. He quietly left the room leaving the doctor alone with his wife. 

You woke up with the feeling of your brain pounding “Your Majesty, how are you feeling.” You hear Hange whisper. “Tired and I feel like my head is about to explode. Ugh, I might need to ask Daisy to join me for some wine I-”

“Oh no, you wouldn’t want to drink in a long time.” Hange giggled like a little kid. Their smile was contagious causing you to smile. “You have to ask me why, Your Majesty.” You giggled at the doctor's silliness. “Why?” You smiled. “Because you’re four and a half months pregnant.” You almost fell off the bed “Pregnant?” You instinctively put your hand on your stomach. Hange eagerly nodded “Yes, you’re 18 weeks in.” You stare in confusion “18 months?? B-but I’ve had no symptoms a-and my stomach is quite small.”

Hange touched their chin “Well, not all women experience early symptoms and the belly size differs from woman to woman. You’ve probably noticed that your period has been missing for months.” That was true…your period is inconsistent but never this late. You just ignored it as you were kinda used to not having your period for a couple of months. “I guess…I’ll have to tell Eren! Thank you Dr.Hange!” You carefully got out of the bed and made your way out. Failing to notice the doctor’s sad smile. 

When you entered your chamber you found Daisy lying on your bed. She jumped up on her feet. “Thank the Gods it's just you, Your Majesty. Historia has been working us to the edge nonstop the last months.” You giggled and sat down on the bed, patting in. Daisy took the hint and sat down next to you, you leaned your head on her shoulder. “How are you feeling? You almost gave me a heart attack when you fainted.” You fainted? You remember being in the garden and the next thing you knew you were in Hange’s office. The baby news distracted you from asking the doctor how you got there. “Yeah, I guess it is the symptoms of pregnancy…Where is His Majesty by the way? I-” You stopped at the sight of Daisy’s shocked face. “Symptoms of pregnancy? You are pregnant?! My Gods Your Majesty! I’m so happy!” She sobbed. Tears poured out of you as Daisy made you really deep that you were pregnant. You were with a child! She aggressively pulled you into a hug and the two of you sobbed for what felt like minutes. The two of you broke the hug and you dried your tears with your handkerchief.  “I’m yet to tell his Majesty a-and my family back home.” You wondered what Eren’s reaction would be. Would he worry about the gender? Would he be happy if you were with a daughter? How would a child change your marriage? Would it be positive? It seemed like the Caprian maid read your mind. “I’m pretty sure he’ll be over the moon,” Daisy said ensuring. “Gods, I need to clean my face. My makeup is a mess” You laughed walking into the bathroom. 

The soft knock on the chamber door echoed in the quiet, dimly lit room. Daisy’s eyes, red and puffy from tears of joy, widened as she quickly scrambled off the bed. She smoothed down her apron and wiped her cheeks, trying to compose herself before opening the door. When Daisy opened the door, she found Eren standing there, his expression carefully neutral, though she could sense the anticipation simmering beneath his calm exterior. He glanced briefly at her tear-streaked face but said nothing about it. He already knew the reason behind those tears, having been informed by Hange earlier today about your pregnancy. He was pretending not to know, wanting to let you share the news with him in your own time.

"Daisy," Eren greeted with a nod, his voice steady, "Is my wife in? Is she ready to see me?" 

Daisy nodded quickly, her heart still racing from the emotional whirlwind she had been caught up in moments before. "Yes, Your Majesty. She's been waiting for you." With that, she curtsied and slipped out of the room, leaving the door slightly open as she hurried down the corridor to give them privacy. Eren stepped into the chamber, closing the door gently behind him. The soft glow of candlelight warmed the room. You finished washing your face and exited the bathroom at the sound of the door clicking shut, your eyes lighting up when you saw him.

"Eren!" you exclaimed, a radiant smile spreading across your face. Your hands fidgeted with excitement, unable to contain the joy bubbling up inside you. You took a few quick steps toward him, your heart pounding with the secret you were about to share.

Eren approached you, his gaze tender as he reached out to take your hands in his. "You seem... particularly happy today," he said, his lips curling into a knowing smile. You laughed softly, your eyes glazed with unshed tears of joy. "I have fantastic news to tell you," you began, her voice trembling with emotion.

You led him to the bed and sat down leaning on the wall. A wave of nervousness overtook you and Eren, sensing your hesitation, gave your hands a reassuring squeeze, his warm smile gave you enough encouragement to speak. 

"Eren," you began softly. His smile widened, his eyes never leaving you. "What is it, love?" You took a deep breath, your voice quivering with the weight of the moment. "I’m pregnant, Eren. We’re going to have a child."

For a heartbeat, time seemed to stand still as the words hung in the air. Then, a wave of pure joy washed over Eren’s face. His eyes sparkled with happiness, and his smile grew even broader, reaching all the way to his heart.

"You're going to be a mother, and I'm going to be a father."

You nodded, your own tears of happiness spilling over as you saw the joy in his eyes. "Yes, Eren. We're going to have a baby."

Without another word, Eren's hands gently released yours and moved to your waist, guiding you to sit on the edge of the bed. He knelt before you, his hands reverently resting on your little bump. His expression softened into one of utter tenderness as he leaned in, pressing his ear against your belly.

You watched him, your heart swelling with love as you saw him for the first time so full of joy. Eren closed his eyes, breathing in deeply as if trying to connect with the life growing within you.

"Hello there, little one," he whispered, his voice thick with emotion. "I’m your father, and I can’t wait to meet you." He paused, listening intently, as though he could hear the tiny heartbeat through sheer will alone. "You’re going to have the most amazing mother. She’s strong, kind, and beautiful. And I promise you, I will do everything I can to protect you and your mother. I want you to be the freest person that has ever walked on earth."

Tears welled up in your eyes as you watched Eren speak to your unborn child, his words filled with love and devotion. You reached down, running your fingers through his chestnut hair as he stayed there, connected to you and your baby.

Eren finally lifted his head, his eyes meeting yours, filled with a joy so strong it left you breathless. He stood, pulling you into his arms, holding you close as he kissed your forehead, then your cheeks, before finally your lips in a gentle, loving kiss.

"I love you," he murmured against your lips, his voice hoarse with emotion. "Thank you, my love. I know it’s been hard and I know you’ve tried your hardest. I’m very grateful."

You smiled through your tears, wrapping your arms around his neck as you whispered back, "I love you too, Eren. More than words can ever say." Your hand ran up and down Eren’s back in a motion so soothing, it almost sent him to sleep. The two of you stayed like that for the whole night, wrapped in each other’s embrace, sharing the overwhelming joy of the new life you’ve created together.

It’s been a week since the news and Eren gathered the whole court for dinner. The grand dining hall was decorated beautifully, a feast for the eyes as well as the palate. Golden candelabras flickered with warm light, casting a soft glow on the lavish table set before the gathered nobles and courtiers. The air was filled with excitement and curiosity as they awaited the King’s announcement. Eren, seated at the head of the table with you by his side, exchanged a knowing glance with you, his hand resting protectively over yours.

After a moment, Eren rose from his seat, lifting a goblet of wine as he called for silence. The room fell quiet, all eyes turning toward him eagerly.

“My esteemed friends and loyal subjects,” Eren began, his voice strong and clear, carrying through the hall. “Tonight, we gather not just to share a meal, but to share in the joy of a special announcement that fills my heart with happiness.”

Your cheeks burned under the gaze of the court, but Eren’s reassuring smile kept you calm. He squeezed your hand once more before continuing.

“It is with the greatest pleasure that I announce… the queen is expecting our first child.”

A chorus of gasps and delighted murmurs swept through the room, followed by a burst of applause and congratulations. The courtiers raised their glasses in a toast, their voices ringing with good wishes for the two of you. The joy in the room was palpable, everyone seemingly caught up in the moment.

But not everyone.

Seated a few places down from the King, Zeke, remained noticeably silent, his expression unreadable as he stared into his wine. While others around him clapped and smiled, Zeke’s eyes narrowed ever so slightly, a flicker of something dark passing through his gaze.

You, in your happiness, barely noticed Zeke’s demeanour, but Eren did. His keen eyes caught the subtle tension in Zeke’s posture, the way his fingers tightened around the stem of his goblet. Eren’s jaw clenched slightly, but he chose not to address it then, not wanting to dampen the mood.

However, one person who also noticed the brief exchange was Armin. Armin knew all too well the potential for conflict between the two brothers and decided to intervene before any tension spread through the dinner.

Stepping forward with a big and nervous smile, Armin raised his hands and addressed the room. “My lords and ladies,” he began, his voice carrying a commanding yet gentle tone, “let us take a moment to offer a blessing for the health and future of the royal heir. May this child bring prosperity to the kingdom and strengthen the bond between our beloved King and Queen.”

He turned to the gathered guests, his eyes shining with warmth. “My lords and ladies, let us offer a new blessing for the child who will one day shape our kingdom’s future. May this heir be graced with power, freedom, and prosperity. Please, join me in this prayer." Armin began to chant the blessing, and one by one, the nobles and courtiers joined in, their voices merging in a harmonious prayer:

"May strength and power be your shield,

May freedom be your birthright,

May prosperity flow like rivers through your land,

May you reign with wisdom,

Guided by the light of truth and justice.

May your path be forged in strength,

Your heart be bound to the freedom of all,

And your hands build a kingdom of plenty,

Where all may thrive under your care.

As the sun rises and sets,

May your reign bring peace and prosperity,

May your people flourish under your rule,

And may your legacy be one of enduring greatness."

The hall reverberated with the sound of the chant, creating an atmosphere of unity and reverence. Eren turned to his queen, his expression softening as the court offered their blessings for their unborn child. The tension that had briefly threatened to overshadow the evening began to dissipate, replaced by a renewed sense of celebration.

Zeke, seeing the shift in focus, leaned back in his chair, the shadow that had darkened his features receding slightly. He participated in the chant, though his voice was quieter than the others, and his expression remained guarded.

As the chant ended, Armin spoke again, “Let us drink to the health and happiness of the future heir to the throne!”

A resounding cheer went up from the guests, and glasses were raised once more. Eren joined in the toast, though he kept a watchful eye on his half-brother, ensuring that the evening continued without further incident.

You beamed, your hand resting gently on your little bump, overwhelmed with joy at the outpouring of support. Courtiers and noblewomen approached to offer their congratulations personally. “Congratulations, Your Majesty,” Annie said with her father beside her. “Thank you, Annie. I’m looking forward to your wedding with Lord Arlert.” You smiled. You could swear that you saw the blonde woman blush as she curtsied before leaving with her father.

Eren stayed close by your side, his protective nature clear as he received each well-wisher with grace.

But as the dinner progressed, Eren’s mind occasionally drifted back to

Zeke’s reaction. The celebration continued around them, but Eren couldn’t shake the unease that had settled in the pit of his stomach.

Zeke, though subdued, was content to remain on the sidelines, watching the proceedings with an unreadable expression. His thoughts were his own, and for now, he chose to keep them that way.

Eren’s gaze met Zeke’s for a brief moment, a silent exchange passing between them. Whatever thoughts Zeke harboured, Eren knew this wouldn’t be the last they would see of his true feelings. But for now, Eren forced himself to focus on the present—on the joy of the announcement, on his queen, and the future you were building together.

As the night wore on, Eren never left your side, ensuring you felt the full support of your court. But in the back of his mind, the shadow of his half-brother’s silence lingered, a subtle reminder that not all shared in their happiness.

The morning after was time for Eren’s departure to the annual meeting in Marley. The palace bathed in the soft golden light of dawn.“Are you sure you don’t want to come?” Eren asked worried climbing up his white horse. “I keep getting morning sicknesses and I don’t think a long journey will make it better. Besides Dr.Hange is here and it’ll be easier to help me in their office. I gave Armin my letters of demand so you won’t need me as I trust him to vote on my behalf.” You nodded. “Alright, be nice while I’m away…and don’t miss me too much.” He said leaning in for a kiss. “I’m always nice”  You flicked his nose before kissing his forehead. “If it is anything, please don’t hesitate on finding Mikasa and sending a message man to me.”

“I will, don’t worry and I’ll be fine. You’re only gone for three nights.” You smiled stroking his horse. 

Meanwhile, on the other side of the castle, far below in a secret bunker, Zeke Yeager stood in the dimly lit room, pacing with a sense of restless anticipation. The ancient stone walls, damp and cold, absorbed the sound of his boots as he walked back and forth, the tension in the air palpable. The scent of earth and moisture hung heavy, creating an oppressive atmosphere that matched the gravity of his plans.

Zeke's eyes gleamed with determination. He had waited patiently for this moment, plotting in the shadows, and now, with the King soon to be far from the palace, the time had come to set his plan in motion.

He approached a large, rough-hewn table in the centre of the room. It was cluttered with maps, documents, and a few small, intricate figurines representing key locations and figures. But the centrepiece of the table was a detailed map of the palace and its surrounding lands, marked with strategic points that would soon come into play.

His hand hovered over the map, his mind racing through the steps of his carefully laid plan. This was no small act of rebellion—it was a coup, one that would topple Eren from the throne and place the crown firmly on Zeke’s head. His allies were in position, waiting for the signal to strike. Soldiers loyal to his cause had been strategically placed within the palace, ready to seize control the moment the King was out of reach.

A knock on the heavy wooden door broke the silence, pulling Zeke from his thoughts. He quickly gathered up the maps, tucking them away into a hidden compartment beneath the table, before turning to face the intruder.

A hooded figure stepped into the room, bowing low. “Everything is prepared, my lord. The King departs as we speak.”

Zeke nodded, a cold smile spreading across his face. “Good. Once he is beyond the walls, we proceed. Make sure everything goes according to plan. We can’t afford any mistakes.”

The figure nodded and slipped away as swiftly as they had appeared.

Zeke stood still for a moment, the weight of his ambitions pressing down on him. But it was a weight he was prepared to bear. The throne was within his grasp, and nothing would stop him from claiming it.

As Eren rode away, unaware of the betrayal brewing in his castle, Zeke’s mind was already racing ahead, calculating each step. This was his moment, his opportunity to seize power. And with Eren gone, the kingdom would soon be his to command.

[davekat-sucks]

I’m loving the DaveJade spree you’re reblogging right now because as I read Homestuck I came to realize that DaveJade is the best Human x human ship in the comic. Both characters look out for each other, but with opposite ways if expressing it. Jade is much more energetic and giddy in her talks with other characters, replying to other characters with a “<3” at the end of their conversations, taking an interest with Dave the most, getting all flowery referring to him as “cool kid” meanwhile Dave is more stoic and level and goes on tangents a out Bec and her living surroundings, but still enjoys deeply participating in Jade’s interests and company. Dave sent Jade a SBAHJ furry poster for god’s sake, he did furry roleplay, he let Jade take his life in her hands to enter his session (even if he really wanted Jade to stay awake during the whole thing.)

And the second part is how they cover up their true feelings, Jade is normally optimistic and cryptic from her visions of the future, and stays open eyed and brave during most of the first half of the comic, until she’s pushed to the brink such as meeting Jadesprite, and more important here, Dave’s session beginning. Dave took the process deadly seriously (AS HE SHOULD) and that led to Jade becoming a little frustrated, but ultimately complicit and concentrated on Dave’s apartment, since she really knew Dave needed to be safe and was a major responsibility.

Dave as I already expressed, shows affection by what he does, not what he says. He did all these things nice for Jade and wanted to generally just hang around on pesterchum with her, but usually went on tangents over things Jade surrounded herself with because he was never really raised to be open about emotions, he was raised by the greatest mall ninja in the history of the universe, emotions could be a weakness by bro’s code, he has to be a straight up super skilled knight to even be ready for the shitshow of Sburb, not a kid with a crush. But after all the hell Bro gave to make him ready, all the dead Daves, all the ironic back and forth between him and John and taunting by Lil Cal, Dave still had feelings, because he’s human.

And Dave can confess emotions, even if ironic, Dave did sarcastically tell John how much he was “totally fine” with Bro’s smuppets and even in a conversation back in Act 2 or 3 straight up said “I love you” to John, only because he’d hope John would cast off the confession as an ironic and jokey “bro thing” the two were having between each other (and to be fair John did dismiss this ironic cinfession)

To wrap it all up Dave is a bisexual hero, and despite the surface level DaveJade being very “preppy girl loves mysterious stoic guy” archetype Dave and Jade have complexities beyond their surface level personalities and quirks, DaveJade is better than Davekat.

People take Jade being a bitch too seriously and think she had always been like this. The nu-fandom forgets that at that point, she had to deal with a rude Karkat, and her access to Prospit's knowledge were gone. So she was on her own what to do and her future was left in the fate of Skaia. And she would soon be MIND CONTROLLED by The Condesce as Grimbark. It's not fully her personality if someone is taking over. But I guess people think people who were mind controlled TOTALLY CONSENTED to do those horrible deed. Just ask Jade, Sollux, Tavros, Terezi, and all those dead trolls that were fed to Vriska's mom. And if people think her moments of narcolepsy (sleeping moments) would lead to Dave getting killed when she tried to help him, people forget that it was still VRISKA purposely making her sleep. It was intentional that she uses Jade to test her mind power abilities to put humans to sleep to gauge how strong she can do it before using it on John to fully create her unstoppable monster, Bec Noir. If anything, it was Vriska's fault she made Jade fall asleep many times because she was using her as a TEST SUBJECT. But sadly, this is the fandom that thinks Vriska did nothing wrong.

[in--somnium]

Cass had known it was bad from the moment she walked in. She had practically felt it even outside Nilza's room, in the hall, but she'd chalked it up to the fact that she tended to be a worrier. She'd tried to convince herself that Nilza was probably fine. She was fine, right?

But this time, her anxiety hadn't been for nothing. Nilza's words hit her like a fucking train and Cass barely had a chance to sit down in the chair beside the bed before her legs gave out.

"H-How long is a few months?" She asked. Were they talking 7? 8? 9? Or only 2 or 3? She was trying to get it all wrapped up in her mind so she could start planning. Clearly Nilza felt like it was hopeless, but Cass wasn't ready to give up yet.

"We... we can figure something out. There's got to be a way..." The panic in her tone was only made more evident by the fact that her accent was starting to come through. She'd lived in the States long enough by now that, in general conversation, only the occasional word here or there was accented. But when she got riled up or nervous...

Then Nilza said she could go and, without a second thought, Cassia waved her hand dismissively. "As if I would just leave. No seas estúpida," She scolded, though there was no real fire to her words. "And I'll take care of Saphira, don't worry," Cass, trying to be optimistic, technically meant it in the short term: I'll take care of Saphira while you're recovering. She didn't state it that way, though, because she knew, realistically, that there was a chance that Nilza really wouldn't survive this. If that happened, then of course she'd take in Saphira without a second thought. But she wasn't yet ready to imagine a future without Nilza in it. She'd get better and she'd be able to take care of Saphira again. Cass was absolutely sure of it. Or... she was hopeful of it, at least.

"For now, though... I... I'll figure this out. Okay?" She'd do her damndest, anyway. "I've some money saved up as well. And I could ask my father..." Being an author didn't leave him with a ton of money, but he had enough to fall back on. He'd do just about anything for his daughter, too. It might be a bit much to ask, but he'd do what he could and Cass could pay him back. Her band was right there on the precipice of getting a record deal, too. They had another meeting, some shit to sign, then... well, it's not like money would start coming in right away, but it could help. They could figure out a payment plan, right? Get something set up.

Then there was the matter of getting her a liver. Cass didn't know nearly enough about how that worked to make any promises, but her head was reeling, trying to come up with something. "Does it have to be family? It doesn't have to be, right?" She questioned. The dead donated organs all the time. Not that Nilza would qualify to be on the transplant list with her history of drinking. But... Cassia's leg had been bouncing anxiously, only stilling because she suddenly shot up out of her chair and started pacing, instead. "What about me? They do partial liver transplants all the time, don't they? If I can, if I'm a match- is that how that works?- then..." She'd do it. No question. It was just her liver, right? And Cass didn't drink much, anyway. She didn't need it. Well, not all of it. So... would that work? Was that an option?

She had paced about half way across the room in those few, short, seconds, but now she was coming back just as quickly. She leaned down over Nilza and gently took the other woman's face in her hands, then touched a kiss to her forehead. "I'll figure this out. Okay? I'm not letting you go so easily."

“What’s wrong?” (From Cassia to Nilza!)

@in--somnium

Send me "What's wrong?" And my muse will tell yours why they are upset. Prompt will be chosen with number randomizer from 1-40

20. “It’s…terminal. I have a few months left.”

The words left her mouth in an unimpressed sigh. How else do you face the fact that your coping mechanism for all the shit that you've dealt with in your life is your undoing? You can live out of spite but for so long. Spite doesn't work once you've drank your liver to death. And maybe she had wanted to quit at this point, or at least, lessen how much she depended on it. But it was too little too late there, and the need to take the edge off that pain that never really went away was going to finally end it...in a far more permanent way than she had really intended.

"I have no insurance, so even with my decent savings their billing department will forever have me by the cajones. And I don't qualify for a transplant since I have no fucking family to ask, and no insurance. Oh and definitely haven't been sober for six months." There was no asking her tio between the instruction to never contact him after he kicked her out, and the fact she would rather deal with this than see if maybe he had treated his slightly better than hers in the last twelve years.

Nilza shrugged, shaking her head slowly, eyes studying the floor intently as she scratched at her collarbone slowly, lips so tight they practically disappeared.

"So uh...yeah. Won't be getting out of here until they're done pumping me with fluids enough to be willing to let me out of here. Like it's going to do anything. That slap the sticker on the tank leak meme? Yeah, that's what this is," she said, shaking her hand with the IV in it with a roll of the eyes.

She pulled her eyes up, forcing a wry smirk. "You can go. Don't have to deal with this but uh...maybe you could let Saphira out for me. I'd just get a dog walker, save the bother, but the key is here with me..." That was something she would need to attend to as well, the fact her dog would outlive her even as old as she was.

[forever-rogue]

A Bucky request for you queen: Reader takes Bucky to meet her family for the first time, and he’s already nervous, but he’s even more nervous when you ask if he wants to hold your sisters new baby bc he doesn’t wanna hurt the baby and he thinks he’s still damaged.

But eventually you convince him to hold the baby and then he sees how good you are and he thinks about having a family for the first time and things can either get fluffy or smutty, whatever u r feelin

Have a great day love!🤍

A/N: enjoy some soft fluff! 🥺

Pairing: Bucky x Fem!Reader

Word Count: 2.4k

Warnings: none

PART 2

MASTERLIST

»»————-　♡　————-««

“Bucky?” you stared at your reflection, putting your earrings in to complete the final outfit touch. You were getting ready to head over to your sister’s house in order to see her, her husband, and their newborn baby for the first time. You were excited to go, beyond ready to see her again and meet the newest addition to your family. Meanwhile Bucky was going through a series of emotions as he tried to ground himself and settle his nerves. He’d been reluctant to agree to go, not because he wasn’t happy to come, but more so because of the bundle of nerves that had welled up at the prospect of meeting a tiny, brand new life. As soon as he’d seen how your face light up in excitement at the prospect of going over, he couldn’t say no when you invited him to come with you. Then again, Bucky could never say no to you, “are you ready to go, my love?”

“I’m ready,” he agreed quickly as he stepped out of your shared bedroom, clearing his throat as he pulled on his leather jacket. You turned, flashing him a dazzling smile that still made him weak in the knees, when you noticed a worried expression on his face. You flounced over, hands going to his shoulders as you offered him a reassuring squeeze. You gazed into his eyes, trying to gauge what was going on in his mind when he let out a small huff. He knew you could read him like a book, “alright. I-I’m nervous about meeting...the baby.”

“James,” you reached up and rested your hand on his cheek, relaxing as he lightly keened into your touch. His hands found purchase on your waist as you leaned into him, brushing your lips against his, “you have nothing to be worried about. She’s just a baby, she’s got no right to judge and she won’t. She’ll see Uncle Bucky and fall right in love. Talk to me, love, tell me what’s going on.”

“You’re going to laugh,” he turned his gaze away, but you reached up and put your hand under his chin and shifted his gaze back to you, “it’s stupid.”

“I’m not going to laugh,” you insisted quietly, “you could tell me anything and it wouldn’t be stupid.”

“I just worry,” he sighed after a few beats of silence passed between the two of you, “what if...what if he’s still in there? Some small part of him and he...snaps. Or something. She’s going to be so small and all it would take it one little-”

“Bucky,” you reached for his hand and squeezed it tightly in your own before lacing your fingers together, “you are not him anymore - he is not you. He never was. You are James Buchanan Barnes and no one else. He is not a part of you anymore at all. You are free of all of that. You are good, you are. I know sometimes it’s harder to believe than others, but it is true.”

“I know,” he closed his eyes for a few moments, lashes fluttering against soft skin as a small sigh passed his lips. He squeezed your hand back before resting his head on your shoulder as you wrapped your arms around his waist, “it’s just...I don’t want to have a moment of...weakness.”

“You won’t,” you insisted softly, “maybe right now you don’t need to believe in yourself, but can you believe in me?”

“Always,” you could feel him smiling lightly against your warm skin as he nodded.

“Good,” you pressed a kiss to the side of his head, “now, trust me because I trust you in you. Now, let’s go, otherwise we’ll be late and then then everyone will be mad.”

“Everyone’s going to be there?”

“Just my parents, my brother, my sister and her husband and the baby of course,” you stepped back and looked him over before leaning in and kissing him quickly, “they know you, Bucky. The real you and they love you. There’s nothing to fear. Might I also add that you look very handsome today. You’ll knock ‘em dead.”

“You look beautiful,” you just happened to be wearing one of the dresses he loved most on you. He’d never commented on it, but you’d seen the way his blue eyes had lit up when you’d first worn it. You figured it would be something to help ease his nerves, almost to ground him as you had a suspicion that he might be nervous. He’d gotten much more comfortable around your family over the last year, but you knew that his general anxiety and fears sometimes bubbled up, “I love you.”

“I love you too,” you promised as you held your hand out towards him. He strode over slowly before taking your hand in his and inhaling and exhaling deeply. He could do this - you knew he could and he knew he could too. Your support had meant everything to him and have him that little push he needed to get over the lingering bit of insecurity he had.

»»————-　♡　————-««

“She’s so small,” you said softly as you held the small baby in your arms. She was sleeping soundly, her little lips forming a perfect pout as you rocked her gently, “she’s beautiful.”

“She better be,” your sister joked, “nine months and then 30 hours of labor - she better be beautiful!”

“You’re the worst,” your eyes widened in surprise before you giggled quietly, “how’s she been?”

“Aurora’s been so good,” she said and you traced over her chubby little cheeks, “lots of long days and nights and more dirty diapers than I care to admit, but she’s worth it. I wouldn’t change a thing.”

“I can see why,” she was so small and tiny, a new life that had so much ahead of her. The idea made your heart melt, “it must all be terribly scary and exciting.”

“It is,” she agreed as she nudged your knee with hers, “what about you and Bucky? Ever think about starting a family of your own? You guys have been together for a while and it’s something to think about…”

“We’ve...vaguely discussed it,” you confessed, looking up just in time to spy Bucky casting a quick look at you. He was mid-conversation with your father and brother but shot you a soft smile before turning back to the conversation. Your breath caught in your throat as a warmth settled in your belly, setting off a course of butterflies. What you hadn’t seen was all of the other gentle, tender glances he’d been throwing your way since you’d gotten there. You sister cleared her throat before drawing your attention back in, “but umm...it’s never really gotten that far. I dunno what’s going to happen, but I like to think maybe one day we’ll get married. I don’t see a future with anyone else.”

“You really love him, don’t you?” she asked softly as you nodded, feeling a warmth creep up into your cheeks as you avoided looking at her face.

“I do,” you bit your lip as you stared at the small baby that had started cooing softly. Her eyes slowly opened as she nodded before looking around and smiling. She waved her chubby little arm around before reaching for your finger and curling her fist around it. You beamed at her before pressing a kiss to her forehead, “just like you already.”

»»————-　♡　————-««

“Bucky?” your voice was soft as you walked outside to the backyard where he was standing and watching the sun slowly setting and painting the sky in brilliant pinks and purples. He hesitated for the slightest of moments before turning to you with a half smile on his features.You were holding Aurora in your arms, and she was already back to being half asleep. His nerves shot up but he quickly calmed down when he realized how tranquil the portrait painted in front of him was. You made it all seem so easy and effortless - it was new and foreign to you too, but you were handling it so well. Maybe he could as well, “would you like to meet your niece? To hold her?”

“I don’t...I don’t know if that’s a good idea,” he said softly as you both took a few steps towards each other. You offered him a hopeful little smile as the baby opened her eyes and turned to look at Bucky. He met her eyes and she babbled excitedly at him. Suddenly, something within snapped as his whole demeanor shifted and his expression softened as he took in a shuddering breath. He could do this, he realized, he could do this.

“Bucky?” this was more hopeful and optimistic as he came towards you and cautiously held his arms open to you. He only nodded as you looked at him to make sure it was okay. Shifting the tiny human from your arms to his, you watched as Bucky took to water like a duck to water as he made sure she was secure in his grip. It was a sight to behold and you felt your heart beat wildly.

“She’s so...new,” was all he could get out as you laughed at him. He almost couldn’t take his eyes off her as you gave his shoulder a squeeze, “so tiny.”

“That’s kind of what a baby is,” you joked as you stuck your tongue out at him and he jokingly scoffed, “see, it’s all easy squeezy lemon peasy.”

“It’s not as hard as I thought,” he confessed after a few moments, “it feels…”

“Yeah,” you pressed a kiss to the side of his head as you finished for him after a few beats of peaceful silence, “I know.”

“Do you think I could have a few moments alone?” he asked as you nodded, standing back and admiring the sight of your boyfriend holding your niece. It struck up something within you and while you weren’t quite sure what it was, you couldn’t help but revel in it.

“I’ll be inside,” you promised, “dinner will be ready soon.If you need anything, just say the word and I’ll be right there.”

“I know,” he grinned, “I know.”

»»————-　♡　————-««

Bucky watched you walk back inside and close the screen door, holding a hand up as he lightly waved back at you. A wary sigh escaped his lips as the baby watched him with nothing but curiosity in her eyes. He’d held babies before, in another life, one which was stolen from him but had led him here. But he wasn’t angry about that anymore; he’d spent many years in anger about it and he was past that. He knew, one of the things that had helped him out of that anger and hatred was you. If his cards had been played any differently, you wouldn’t have been a part of his, and you had slowly but definitely become one of the best parts of his life.

It felt so foreign but so right in that moment as he stared at the small life in his arms. He’d never really pictured himself with a family of his own, once in his old life he might have, but he hadn’t in a long time. With you, something had trickled in, slowly blooming over time to become stronger and stronger. And after seeing you with the baby, there was something in him that had come full circle. And as he looked at her little face, he couldn’t help but wonder what your own child would like. Would they have his eyes? His dark shock of hair? Or would they take after you? Either way, he knew whatever child the two of you might have would be beautiful.

“Hi Aurora,” he whispered to her as he allowed him to touch her cheek, finding the faith and trust deep within himself, “you’re still so new to this world. You don’t know about all the horrors and scary parts yet. But there are so many good things too, lots of beautiful things. I will do my best to protect you from all the bad parts, I promise. Whatever you need, I will be there.”

She smiled at him, a toothless, gummy thing as he beamed at her. Maybe...maybe one day this could be a reality for the two of you as well. Bucky let himself relax as it felt like a weight lifted off of his shoulders at the realization that he was okay. That nothing had happened and nothing would happen. He was okay...he was okay. He closed his eyes for a moment as he remembered how you looked holding her earlier. The sight had sparked something within him too; it was a sight he had thoroughly enjoyed seeing. For the first time in a long time, he had allowed himself to think that maybe he could have this too, that he could have a family and happiness of his own.

A sigh, this one contented and happy, escaped his lips as he cradled Aurora against his chest and watched the sun disappear behind the horizon, “I think maybe one day I could be a dad. I think..I think I’d like that. Especially after today...I feel like it could be an actual possibility. I was nervous about today - meeting you. I know it sounds silly, especially since you’re just...a baby. I wasn’t sure if I could...trust myself - it’s still hard sometimes. Not often but there are times. You helped me to see that maybe it’s not so hard after all. Whatever it is, I-I’m willing to try. Especially with your Aunt. You’re going to love her, you know. I do.I really, really do. I think she’s everything.”

“Bucky?” you poked your head out the door and beamed, “dinner’s ready!”

“Coming,” he slowly made his way back over to you. Opening the door wider, you ushered him inside, a hand going to the small of his back as he handed Aurora back over to your sister. He returned to your side, an arm snaking around your waist as he kissed the top of your head, “hi.”

“Hello my love,” you grinned back at him, “how’d it go? She seemed to like you...you seemed to like her…”

“I did,” he agreed, “we had a good talk. Well, I did most of the talking, but she’s a good listener.”

“Hmm,” you snorted in laughter, “you’re something else, Barnes.You’re lucky I love you so much.”

“I love you, sweetheart,” he leaned in so he could whisper in your ear, “maybe later we could talk. There’s some...things that have been on my mind for some time.”

“Bucky?” you gave him a confused look but he cut you off with a soft kiss to your lips, “everything alright?”

“Yes,” he promised gently, “everything is perfect.”

»»————-　♡　————-««

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[sokkascroptop]

traitor. (sokka x f!reader) pt 26

part 1 | part 25

a/n: no matter how long you have been here, just know i'm extremely grateful for anyone who's read this fic. now here's the latest chapter.

Sometimes it felt like the days dragged on. Each and every hour was laid out just like the day before–the week before. It made time seem endless, even though Y/N knew it definitely was not. Sozin’s Comet was getting closer and closer each day. Y/N didn’t know if it was the anticipation for that long fated day or if it was some buried fire bender gene in her body, warning her of something to come. She could feel it deep within her bones. She woke up earlier and earlier each day, no matter how late her night ended up. And each day the sun greeted her with warm yellow light that made the air a little easier to breathe.

As they moved further south and into Fire Nation territory, Zuko made mention of Ember Island as a place to hide out. The island–or chain of islands, really–were close enough to Caldera City that it would be a good place for them to lay low and wait, as well as uninhabited by enough people that they could lay low.

Y/N thought it was a little risky to be living in the Fire Lord’s Ember Island house, but Zuko was probably right, this was going to be the last place anyone would look for them. Maybe Y/N was just unsettled about being back, so close to Caldera City, or maybe it was being back on Ember Island for the first time since she was 9.

Somewhere between the temple and the beach house, Y/N tired of training. It just added to the monotony, and so she just…stopped. Instead, she spent her days on the beach, sometimes alone–often with the others though–playing in the tide pools and skim-boarding on the sand. And sometimes, if she felt like she didn’t have enough time on her own to recharge, she’d leave in the night, either through her window or the front door to take a walk on the beach in the moonlight. Only to come back and wake up a few hours later, ready for sunrise.

Today was no different, though the sun was already peeking over the horizon and into her room when her eyes peeled open.

The wooden floors creaked under Y/N’s feet as she crept out of her room silently.

Each board was smooth under her bare toes, not well-worn by many little feet running across them year after year but made that way before they were even built into the house, for no doubt a hefty fee. The beach house was… cold, to say the least. It just felt like each pore of the house seeped something uninviting, reminding them that they shouldn’t be there. It wasn’t just Y/N who felt it, they all spent as little time as possible in the house.

She padded into the kitchen and struck their flint to start a fire under the stove–mostly unneeded since Zuko had joined their group–but wholly necessary when he wasn’t around to be their fire-starter. Y/N didn’t mind doing it this way, it felt nice being able to do something with her own hands for once instead of relying on the others to make clean water or heat up the food. She boiled just enough water for one cup of tea before heading out to the courtyard where she knew at least two of her friends would be awake.

Y/N didn’t like feeling optimistic. It was a terrifying feeling. There was so much riding on their success; she didn’t want to spend so much energy on hoping only to have it all dashed away if things didn’t go their way. It would be too heartbreaking. But watching Aang, she could. They weren’t even sparring and she could see the power behind every blast of fire. And she had hope for their future. She had to; she wasn’t going to lose her friends.

“You’re doing that one wrong,” Y/N said from the shadows on the porch. She held her warm cup to her chest, the breeze blowing in from the ocean was keeping the courtyard chilly until the sun could rise high enough to heat the island.

Aang didn’t seem too surprised to hear her voice. “Doing what wrong?” He asked, confused.

Zuko frowned up at Y/N from his seat on the steps but nodded to Aang. “She’s right, you have to dip further down so when you come up the fire creates more of an arc.”

Aang pushed through a few more poses before Zuko stood up and joined him. Y/N stole his seat and pulled her legs up to cross them. She watched as they moved in tandem, working though the most basic of firebending forms all the way up to a few advanced ones. Memories flooded Y/N’s head so fast it made her dizzy. She remembered sitting just like she was now, watching her two brothers work through their forms when she was younger. On chilly mornings, much like today, she would wrap herself in a blanket nest and sip on tea that was much too sweet as they worked well into mid morning. In a sudden rush of affection she realized she was doing much of the same thing, just years and years later.

Aang had learned fast. That was good. She set down her empty cup as the two boys headed back to her, both sweaty from their training. “Good job, Aang! You’re doing great!”

Aang beamed with pride. “Thanks, Y/N!

“Don’t be so encouraging, he’s still got a lot to learn,” Zuko grumbled, taking a seat on the ground next to her.

Y/N pouted. “He needs encouragement. That’s how he learns.” Y/N learned that from watching the differences between Katara teaching styles and Toph’s teaching styles.

“Speaking of firebending,” Aang kicked his feet against the edge of the steps and looked around like he was avoiding something. “How did you know about the firebending forms?”

Zuko leaned back on his hands. “I’d like to know that too.”

Y/N smiled softly. “I watched my brothers for years, religiously learning all the forms and practicing them on my own. I wanted to be just like them. I guess I still remember them.”

Aang frowned. “It’s not like you couldn’t bend on purpose.”

Y/N was surprised to see Aang look so sad. “I know.” She shrugged and looked away feeling her cheeks redden with both boys staring at her. “I just wanted to be normal so people would stop paying attention to me for the wrong reasons.” She mumbled.

“It made you a better sword fighter,” Zuko said suddenly.

“What?” Y/N asked.

“The discipline and movements. You do the same when you’re fighting.”

“I’ve never noticed, but you’re right, Zuko!” Aang exclaimed.

The thought made Y/N smile. “That was nice of you.”

Zuko rolled his eyes but let the smallest hint of a smile grace his lips.

She looked back to Aang, who still looked a bit hesitant. “Don’t worry about me. How about we go swimming? Before the others wake up!”

Aang perked up immediately. “That sounds great! Let’s go, Zuko!”

Y/N and Aang stood, both looking down at Zuko, who just stared at the ground between his feet. She could already hear him saying no, telling them that he needed to train more or meditate and didn’t have time to run off and play games.

Y/N opened her mouth to tell Aang that the two of them could still go but Zuko spoke up before her. “Yeah, okay.”

Sometimes even on those long, dragging days, it was the little things that made everything better; like playing in the surf with two of your friends.

---

That evening though, Y/N was back where she had started the day, and had decided that everyone in her group of friends, save for maybe Zuko, talked way too much. She craved those moments alone where she just had her thoughts to occupy her. Especially when she had a lot on her mind.

Y/N didn’t want to admit she felt stuck inside with Aang and Katara while everyone else was outside enjoying the evening, but she also felt guilty in turning down their request to help make dinner to just wander around on the beach until sunset. She didn’t help out much with making meals, and she felt obligated to help when she could.

So she was there, sitting on the dinner table, lotus style with a knife and a cutting board and a basket of carrots in need of chopping at her side.

“What else can I do, Katara?” Aang dumped some of the vegetables he was cutting into the stew Katara was currently stirring over the stove.

“Hmm, can you go out and get some more water to make the rice?” Aang grinned and nodded, before running out of the house towards the side of the house where there was a small barrel of collected water.

Y/N smiled to herself at the interaction and continued cutting carrots for Katara, trying not to let her mind wander, but it was hard with the monotonous work and the bad spot she was sitting in.

Just in front of her was the window where she had watched Zuko and Aang train while she made tea that morning, now it showed Zuko and Sokka doing their own training.

Y/N was struggling with more than just feeling like she didn’t belong on the Island. She didn’t know what she was going to say to Sokka, or if she was even going to say anything about her feelings at all. Without the constant traveling and the safety of a hideout, she was able to just stop and let those feelings and thoughts she had been holding back with a dam of fear wash over her.

It was all really confusing for Y/N. And hard to admit.

She didn’t want to face the awkward conversation of asking whether he could always be there for her. She didn’t want to beg him to never leave because she was so insecure. She was so afraid of losing everything and everyone that she was going to do just that because she was afraid of opening up.

What would happen if she never told Sokka she loved him back? Did she even love him back? What did love feel like?

Love with Azula felt like fire, sometimes it burned painfully, but in the good times it filled her with a warmth like never before. Zuko’s friendship felt the same, but it was less like sitting too close to the fire and more like sitting just in the right place where it didn’t dry out your eyes but didn’t make goosebumps grow on your arms. Sokka always felt like a cool breeze, one where you lift your face up to the sky and smile because it always feels like relief. But that’s not what Y/N is used to. How does she know if it’s love if it doesn’t hurt a little bit? How does she know that it's real if she doesn’t have to give all of herself until she is worn to nothing to make it work?

It wasn’t that she was afraid to care for him, she had made it clear that she did. It was just easier on her heart to keep him at a distance for now until she figured they were inevitably part ways. That’s how Y/N saw this all ending. Separated across oceans, back to where they came from, whatever the outcome of the war. Y/N wanted to dream of the possibilities and opportunities where they could be together in the long run, but those were just that, dreams for another lifetime. People from the Water Tribe didn’t marry people from the Fire Nation.

Everything that she learned over the last few months was that nothing was ever set in stone, so why should she and Sokka be.

Y/N stared out the window, pondering when it would all fall apart and sliced downwards on a carrot, but met nothing but the cutting board. She looked down where the knife was closer to her finger than to the carrots. She let out a little inward gasp.

“What?” Katara turned around and asked.

Y/N’s eyes widened. “Nothing.” She motioned to the cutting board. “Do you want these smaller?”

Katara eyed Y/N and then looked to the cutting board. “They’re fine. But pay more attention, I don’t know how to reattach fingers yet.”

“Yeah, definitely.”

Y/N’s eyes didn’t leave the wooden cutting board and her fingers until the others came bustling into the kitchen, all talking at once.

Y/N for the most part ignored everyone, until Sokka reached over and snatched one of the slices of carrots.

Y/N nudged his arm. “Can you wait?! I thought you didn’t like vegetables!”

“Aang got me to like carrots!” Sokka retorted, before quickly reaching around Y/N to grab another and popping it into his mouth.

“Why would you be sitting on the table that we have to eat off of?” Suki wrinkled her nose.

“Uh! Katara said I could!” Y/N stuck her tongue out.

Katara whipped around, hands on her hips. “I never said you could, I just didn’t say you couldn’t.” Katara turned back to stirring the stew before muttering under her breath, “Not like telling you no would have made a difference anyways.”

“Hey!” Y/N picked up a carrot and launched it at the back of Katara’s head.

Aang walked back inside carrying a bucket of water, to a kitchen full of chaos. Vegetables were being thrown across the room at one another, as laughter rang out. Sokka, Zuko and Y/N were sprawled on one side of the kitchen behind and under the table; with Suki, Katara and Toph only edging from behind the safety of the kitchen doorway to throw something.

For the first time in a long time, Y/N could hear the exasperation of a 112 year old monk in Aang’s usually cheerful voice.“Uh, guys, what are we supposed to eat for dinner now?”

---

Y/N was dozing against the headboard of her bed that night, when she heard the knock at her door. At first she thought she imagined it, that is until she heard a voice on the other side of the doorway. “Y/N, are you awake?”

Y/N slid out of bed and cracked open the door. She smiled and leaned against the doorjamb, a familiar feeling in her chest.

“Are you afraid that there are ghosts here too?”

Sokka grinned and nodded. “In this house? Absolutely. But I’m not here for that.”

“Oh?” Y/N raised an eyebrow.

“Come outside with me.”

Y/N chuckled. “Why?”

“Please, just come on. No questions.”

Y/N sighed and reached for an old silk robe she found in one of the closets, but her smile never left her face.

To be fair to Sokka, there wasn’t much to surprise Y/N with on an island she grew up on. But that night, the sky momentarily took her breath away.

Sometimes the simplest things were the most beautiful.

“I thought we could come out here; look at the stars a bit. I used to like doing that at home. Though it’s different. The constellations aren’t the same where I’m from.”

“I guess I’ll just have to teach you some.”

Together they laid side by side on the roof, and Y/N pointed out her favorites. The dragon, the jack-rabbit...

After Y/N had told Sokka the story of the Red Queen, some ancient fable of a powerful Fire Lady that was always one of Y/N’s favorites, they both grew quiet, Y/N asked the question that had been brewing on her mind. She worried that whatever she said would mess up the peaceful night they had been having. It felt like she was intruding on a secret that she wasn’t supposed to know.

“Hey, Sokka,” Y/N asked.

“Hmmm,” She looked over and Sokka looked about half asleep already. Maybe this would be good timing.

“Who’s Yue?”

Sokka’s eyes shot open and he sat up quickly. “What?”

Y/N could feel her face flush. Maybe she wasn’t supposed to know.

“Yue.” The word sounded flat and foreign on her tongue. Maybe that wasn’t how you actually pronounced it? Some of the Water Tribe names and words were hard for Y/N’s mouth to form. If she could, she flushed deeper. “I heard you talking about them when I was hurt. I was in and out of it, so I don’t remember much, but I remember the name.”

Sokka suddenly looked very sad. Which was… odd because Y/N just thought that Yue was a Water Tribe spirit much like the Fire Nation had Agni.

“She’s the moon spirit,” Sokka whispered, his eyes cast down on his wringing hands.

Y/N eyes were wide. Why was he acting like this? “Oh. I figured she was a spirit or something. It sounded like you were praying to her, or something.”

“Yeah,” Sokka choked out. “Something like that.”

That’s when Y/N noticed there were drips of water on Sokka’s hands. Tears.

“Sokka?” Y/N said softly. She reached forward and–yup those were tears, dripping on their hands.

“She was a girl I met at the Northern Water Tribe when we first started traveling.”

“I thought she was…”

“She is.” For the first time, Sokka looked up. The pain in his eyes was unimaginable. “But she was still a girl when I met her.”

Sokka launched into a story that sounded more fantasy than real, but the look on his face, the sadness in his features, Y/N knew he was telling the truth.

“She was blessed by the moon spirit when she was born, it was the only reason she was alive. But when we were in the Northern Water Tribe—Zhao, a Fire Nation commander killed the moon spirit and all the water benders lost their bending, forever.” Sokka shivered. “It was scary, the moon was gone in the sky and we were helpless to fight the Fire Nation. It would have changed the tide of the war.

But she was selfless. She knew that she was the only hope for her tribe—for the world—and she sacrificed herself to save all of us. So now she’s the moon spirit…I guess. I don’t know, she’ll always be Yue to me.” Sokka’s voice trailed off with a sniffle. Y/N didn’t know how to respond.

Sokka sent a longing glance upward. The moon was just past full, waning in the far distance but still bright and round in the sky. “I think–I think she heard me that night. And she knew how much you meant to me, even then. And she saved you because…” Now it was Sokka’s turn to flush. “I don’t think I could live without you.”

Those words made Y/N’s chest burn. Her arms and legs tingled in relief as if all the tension in her body began to melt away. Y/N reached out, wiping a stray tear off of Sokka’s cheek. “Me either,” she replied instantly. “I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to make you sad.”

“’m not. Sad, really. I miss her, but it’s easier to always know where she is. She didn’t have a lot of choice in her life, but this was something she had control over. If she hadn’t become the moon spirit, the war would have ended right there. So her sacrifice meant that, you know, Zuko is our friend now and Aang has a chance at beating the Firelord and you have a place in all our lives. She made all of this possible.”

“Sounds like we have a lot more to be thankful to her for than just saving little old me then, huh?”

“You would have liked her.”

Y/N nodded and peered at the moon above them. “I do like her.”

No one else needed to know that after the two of them went inside and off to bed, that Y/N hung halfway out her window to get one last look at the moon. Y/N swore as her eyes closed and sleep overtook her that the moon shone a little brighter. Maybe that’s how the moon said thank you. Y/N’d never tell anyone that she whispered a small thank you too, to the girl who lived among the stars.

a/n: don't be shy, come talk to me in my askbox and tell me if you liked it

taglist: @myexgirlfriendisthemoon @reclusive-chicken-nugget @astroninaaa @aangsupremacy @beifongsss @crownofcryptids @welovediaaxx @littlefluu @lozzybowe @thebluelcdy @teenbiology @13-09-01 @riespage @davnwillcome @creation-magician @lunariasilver @francesciak @thia-aep @aphrcditeee @solarsuki @my--shitty--art @lovingcupcake51002 @loganrwebb @celia-not-cecilia @treestarrrrrrrr @izzieserra @salsasadd @nataliahaslosthershit @awkwardnesshabitat @lanie103  @im-the-galactic-starfish @charlotteisabella  @sugamonster22  @calumsfringe @whatsuphoesandbros @i-love-superhero @justasukisimp @grouchiest-hufflepuff  @euphoricmads @ivetoldamillionlies @fanficsformyperusal @mikxyu @ladylizzieofdarbyshire @someonekeepstakingmyusernames @earthtokace @justamessandahalf @perfectlyfadingmusic @atlafanforlife @iris-suoh @chilifrylizard2

[chaoticpuff17]

Something Wicked

part 10

masterlist

Jin had become a little less volatile in the following days, but he had become almost unbearably smothering when he wasn’t disappearing into his office to take mysterious phone calls. He always seemed to be touching her, kissing her. The man was practically glowing with excitement, and his excitement never boded well for her. She tried at least to enjoy the relative peace while it lasted. He hadn’t tried to initiate anything either. It was a relief for her. There was a lot she could put up with, mostly because she had to, but that was not something she wanted to give to Jin.

She had never like Kim Seokjin. He was not a good man, even before this, but now, she firmly believed that he was the devil. What else could he be? He was the subject of nightmares, the creature that mothers warn their children about. He was the monster her parents had warned her about. She should have gotten away when she’d had the chance. She should have quit all those years ago when she first realized how horrible he was to work with. None of this ever would have happened if she’d taken the job in the first place.

Her father had always taught her to try to find the good in any situation, but she couldn’t find any here. There was no good to be found in Kim Seokjin. In a way she was glad that her father was dead. She would have hated for him to see how far she had fallen. He’d always wanted a good life for her. Maybe if Jin wasn’t psychotic, and they had met in a different life one where Jin had wooed her like a normal man, he could have provided that for her. There was no chance of that now though. Jin had taken everything from her. He’d taken her freedom, her dignity. She had a sneaking suspicion that he had been behind Minseok’s demise. And now, he was going to permanently tie them together.

Jin had presented her with a ring as gaudy as he was, happily slipping it onto her finger gripping her hand a little too tightly for the gesture to be sweet. The large diamond was prominently sat in the middle of a platinum band with two smaller baguette diamonds on either side of the central emerald cut stone. It was a hard piece of jewelry to ignore. Every time she moved it caught the light drawing her eye down to the horrid thing. Jin was so proud of it. He declared it worthy of the future Mrs. Kim, but she detested it. Every time she looked at it, it made her stomach turn. She wanted to chuck it over the balcony and down to the busy streets below, but she refrained too frightened of what Jin would do to her if she did so.

He’d brought in a team of ladies to primp and poke her into the image of Kim Seokjin’s wife, as well as a team to groom poor Jinnie, but not before thoroughly threatening her. Jin couldn’t risk her asking for help. He couldn’t risk his image as Seoul’s golden boy. He was perfect, and his future wife had to be too.

Every time she thought of his dead eyed smile as he’d spoken to her, as he’d threated to kill Jinnie, to hurt her, a shudder went down her spine. It had been a struggle for her to keep quiet when the ladies had been there fixing her hair and doing her nails. Even if she had wanted to speak up, Jin was always there leisurely seated a few feet away giving instructions to the ladies. He wanted her to be perfect, his version of perfect. Her hair was styled to his specifications. Her nails were shaped and painted in a demure neutral color, because the wife of Kim Seokjin was to be a perfectly demure lady, and she hated it. She had never been a very vibrant woman. She’d always been a little softer, a little more neutral, but something about that fact that it was now being dictated to her made her hate it.

She was filled with the urge to take a pair of kitchen scissors and cut off all of her hair. She wanted to paint her nails a violent shade of pink just to spite him, but how could she? He was always there, always hovering over her shoulder. He was so thrilled with the idea of their wedding, and she had never dreaded anything more.

He was almost manic in his excitement. He was constantly bringing her wedding magazines forcing her to choose between preapproved flowers, colors, food. There was nothing that wasn’t already Jin’s choice, not that she really wanted to be involved in wedding planning. She knew what would happen once the wedding took place. She’d be legally tied to Jin in the eyes of the law and the eyes of the public. There would be no escape for her, not that there was much chance now.

She’d learned a lot about Jin during her captivity. She’d always known him to be meticulous, a perfectionist, but there was something about seeing him in all his psychotic glory that stripped her of all hope. He was almost obsessive, no, he was obsessive. Every detail of her captivity was planned just as every detail of their wedding was planned. There was nothing she could do to fight against him, not when he held all the cards.

“Hello, my darling.” Jin greeted her placing a kiss to her forehead. She was getting better at accepting his displays of affection, or she was had been well trained. Any rejection of Jin was met with violence so she kept herself calm. She kept herself gentle and passive just as Jin wanted her.

“How has your day been?” He asked sinking down to sit next to her.

“It’s been fine.” She smiled setting her book aside. She wasn’t allowed to do other things when Jin wanted her attention. Her focus was always to be on him. He was a narcissist at heart. Everything had to be about Jin. “Do you have anything you want me to look over?” She asked. Jin wanted her active and excited in the wedding planning, so she pasted on a smile and pretended as best she could if only to keep him calm.

“No, darling.” He cooed smiling gently as he played with her hair. “Not right now, we have almost everything decided. It won’t be long now.”

A thought she dreaded.  Marriage to Jin was the last thing she wanted, but it wasn’t as though he was giving her a choice.

“What’s that?” She asked looking at the file resting on his other side. If he’d brought it instead of taking it directly to the office, it had to have something to do with her.

He smiled picking up the file and opening it up. “This? This is your medical file, darling.”

She froze dread filling her. What could he possibly want with her medical records? How had he even gotten them? She wasn’t sure who to be more upset with, Jin or her doctor, but the likelihood of her ever seeing the doctor of her choice again was slim. It would probably be Jin’s choice from now on. He was an overbearing bastard.

“We’ll have to get your IUD removed.” He mused flipping through the pages. “We’ll be needing an heir, and that pesky little thing will get in the way.” He looked back at her gently brushing a stray strand of hair out of her face. “But we can take care of that after the wedding. I want to enjoy you before we have a son.” He leaned in nipping at her ear.

“A baby?” She whimpered doing her best not to flinch away from him.

“Of course, darling.” He chuckled trailing light kisses down her neck. “Mother and father are anxious for grandchildren as well. Seokjung won’t be much help to them in that regard.”

She stiffened even more at the mention of his brother. It was rare for Jin to bring him up. Not many people even knew the fate of the older Kim brother, but she had been working with Seokjin for years. She’d even met the man a few times, quite the feat considering how the family kept him away from the eyes of the public. The poor man wasn’t even mentioned with the rest of the family, not since the accident.

Kim Seokjung was set to inherit the company until there was a skiing accident when the brothers were in high school. Seokjung had ended up paralyzed from the waist down and had become effectively useless in the eyes of his upper crust family. He received the best of care, but his life was essentially over. Seokjin had risen as the only son and heir of the Kim family.

Of the two, Seokjung was definitely her favorite. He was a pleasant man, far more pleasant than the rest of his family and surprisingly optimistic considering the life he’s been thrust into. Assistants had no place in private family matters, but Jin had insisted on bringing her to the family home on more than one occasion, and that was where she had met Seokjung.

She first encountered him in the kitchen in the family home. To say that both of them had been surprised would have been an understatement. She had only been working for Seokjin for a year, and she had never heard mention of a brother, but they’d quickly settled into conversation seated at the little breakfast nook in the vast kitchen with a cup of tea that Seokjung had made for them himself. There wasn’t much for him to keep himself occupied now that he was effectively under house arrest by his own family, but he was excellent at making tea. He was also an amateur chef. She loved talking to him. The few times she had met him were the highlight of her time working with Jin.

One thing that never made sense to her was the accident. Both Seokjin and Seokjung were very athletic back in the day. Seokjin was still athletic. One of the things that the Kim family excelled at was winter sports. Seokjin preferred to snow board, but from what she had heard, Seokjung was quite the accomplished skier. They’d been to that resort hundreds of times. He’d skied those hills all his life. The conditions hadn’t even been bad on that fateful day, but something had gone wrong, so wrong that Seokjung no longer had the use of his legs. Now knowing Jin more, she now had to wonder if he had had something to do with the accident. She wouldn’t put it past him, not now.

“Wouldn’t that be nice, darling?” Jin cooed bringing her back to the present as he nuzzled into her neck. “A little son.”

“I don’t… I’m not…” He breath hitched as Jin nipped at her neck more harshly.

“You’re not what, darling?”

“I’m not ready for children.” She whispered trembling as she waited for Jin’s reaction.

Jin pulled away staring her down before a grin stretched across his features. “Not to worry, darling. We can wait a little before we start our family. I want to enjoy you first.” He purred nipping her neck again.

“No, Jin.” She whispered pushing him away gently. “I don’t want children.”

She had always been on the fence about kids. It was the biggest fight that she and Minseok had ever had. He’d wanted a houseful of them. She wasn’t even sure she wanted them. She’d never had siblings, and she’d cared for two ailing parents in her life. Kids had never really crossed her mind, but she knew she definitely didn’t want them with Jin. She doubted she had much choice on that either, but she had to try.

Jin frowned before pasting on an indulgent smile. “Two I think. Two boys. Doesn’t that sound nice, darling?”

“I don’t…”

Jin cut her off his smile becoming more strained, his eyes darkening. “You don’t know what you want, darling. That’s why you have me.” He pet her hair his tone taking on a condescending air.

“Jin…”

“My poor stupid darling.” He cooed pulling her up onto his lap, wrapping his arms around her tightly. “How did you ever survive without me?” She grit her teeth restraining herself from snipping at him. She’d gain nothing from upsetting him even more than she already had. “Don’t worry, darling. By this time next week, we’ll be married, and you’ll never have to worry again. Daddy will take care of you.”

Yes, that was exactly what she was afraid of.

part 11

[purrincess-chat]

Marinette Dupain-Cheng’s Spite Playlist: Remix CH11

And here the plot thickens! There’s a lot coming up in this next section that I hope you will all love. I’ve spent the most time in this middle portion, and I’m really happy with a lot of the character arcs coming up. Enjoy!

Previous    First    Next      AO3

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

Chapter 11: Rain on Me

“It’s not much, but…”

Tall columns stretched up to the ceiling on either side of the grand staircase, and Marinette’s reflection beamed back at her in the tile. The foyer was bright and airy—a stark contrast to the duller hues of Adrien’s house. Macy’s home was grand but also inviting.

Eliott shoved Macy playfully. “I’ll say. My foyer is much bigger.”

Macy shoved him back, sticking out her tongue. “C’mon, I’ll show you my room.” She bounced up the stairs cheerfully, leading them to the door at the end of the hall. “This whole wing is mine actually. I’ve got a movie theater, a private bathroom—I even have my own sound studio.”

“I’ve begged my father to build a theater, but he doesn’t like the idea of having a lot of teenagers in his house,” Adrien said with a hint of envy. “Do you mind if I take a look?”

“You can look at whatever you want,” Macy giggled.

Martin and Eliott exchanged looks.

“I’ll go with them.” Martin followed them up the hall.

“Marinette, come check out the closet. Macy’s handbag collection is to die for.” Eliott took her hand and pulled her into Macy’s room. “Julius, can you bring us up some tea? Set it up on the terrace.”

Macy’s butler nodded politely before retreating from the room.

“You’re really comfortable here,” Marinette remarked as Eliott threw open the closet doors.

"Macy and I grew up together. We've been friends forever, so it's almost like I live here too," he said, sifting through a rack of designer dresses. "We're basically family."

"That's so awesome. I wish I had someone like that," Marinette said. She examined the photos hanging on Macy's vanity, smiling young faces that were all too familiar. "Who's the girl in these pictures? She looks a lot like you. Is she your sister?"

Eliott stopped, cautiously crossing the room to stand beside her. He shoved his hands into his pockets and frowned. "No, that's me.”

Marinette's eyebrows raised. "Oh. Oh. Okay." She nodded, turning back to the pictures awkwardly.

"Is that okay?" Eliott asked.

"Of course."

Eliott relaxed, trailing his thumb over the edge of the photo. "I started transitioning the summer before collége. I’m lucky that my family is so supportive," he explained. “Not many people at school know besides Macy—just a few teachers. I’m always a bit scared to tell new people because I don’t know how they’ll react, and even though we haven’t known each other that long, I trust you, Marinette.”

"Um, thank you for telling me." She clasped her hands together. “It means a lot to know you see me that way. After everything… I needed friends like you and Macy.”

"I should be thanking you. I’ve changed for the better every day since I met you. I can tell you have that effect on people,” he said. “Besides, it's who I am, and I don’t want to hide it from my friends. It’s just… not everyone is so understanding.”

"Don’t worry, your secret is safe with me,” Marinette said. Her cheeks warmed when Eliott scooped her into a tight hug.

Things in her life were so different now. Different school, different people, but deep down, Marinette was still the same. Loving her friends wasn’t a bad thing. Alya may have turned her back on their friendship, but that didn’t mean that everyone in her life would. Eliott’s confidence in her was proof enough that these people would stay by her side.

“You two can go ahead out to the terrace,” Macy’s voice sounded in the hall, and a moment later, she appeared in the doorway. “Did you show her my limited-edition handbag collection?” She leaned against the frame with a knowing look.

“Yeah, she thinks they’re great.” Eliott winked.

“Good,” Macy said. “We don’t let just anyone see them, so you should feel honored.”

“I do. Moving to a new school was really hard, so I’m glad to have made such good friends so quickly,” Marinette said. “You’ve both changed my life too.”

“Aww,” Macy and Eliott cooed.

Eliott lifted her hand to his lips. “Don’t worry. From now on, we’re here for you, Marinette.”

“Yeah, you’re one of us now.”

♪♫♪ The Wrecked and the Worried ♪♫♪

“Thanks for taking me home,” Marinette said as Gorilla pulled out onto the street. “Macy lives so far away from my house.”

Adrien smiled at her, the warmth from his chest spreading to his cheeks. Marinette was so much happier with her new friends. Seeing her face light up when she laughed at one of Eliott’s jokes, or the slight furrow in her brow when Macy waved 2000 euros away like it was pocket change set his mind at ease.

The more distance Marinette put between her and Francoise-Dupont, the happier she became, and the more Lila’s threats lost their bite. Out of everyone in their class, he had always been drawn to Marinette. Maybe it was her courage or her compassionate nature that he admired so much or maybe her optimistic attitude. She’d lost everything because of Lila, and yet, she’d still managed to pick up the pieces and find happiness again.

In such a short time, he’d become so protective of her. He never wanted that smile to fade or those brilliant bluebell eyes to dim. More than anything, he wanted her to be free from the past, and he’d do anything to help her get there. Marinette deserved the best—she shared her light freely all the time and never asked for anything in return, so now he was going to do the same for her.

“It’s no trouble. I’m happy that I get to spend time together with just you,” he said. “Your new friends are really nice.”

“Yeah, I’m sorry about Macy. She just gets really excited.” Marinette winced.

“It’s okay,” he chuckled. “Your designs look amazing so far.”

Her cheeks darkened three shades. “I dunno about that. They’re still pretty messy…Clara probably won’t like them.”

“Why not? You’re really talented. I’m sure she will love them.” He assured her.

“Thanks, I guess. I’m just so nervous about it.” She hugged her bag to her chest and bit her lip. “I still can’t believe I have an opportunity like this right now. It’s always been my dream to be a designer, but I pictured it as something I wouldn’t achieve until I was older. I feel so under-qualified.”

“You’re already a great designer, Marinette, and people are starting to see that,” he said. “You shouldn’t be so modest.”

“I know, but I can’t help it,” she said. “I don’t want to brag or seem full of myself.”

“I don’t think anyone thinks you’re full of yourself. It’s not wrong to brag every once in a while, especially for someone as incredible as you.” He placed his hands on her shoulders and offered her a warm smile. “We’re all just proud of you, and we want you to be proud of yourself. You deserve it.”

Marinette bit back a smile, cheeks pink and eyes shining in the dim light. How had he gotten so lucky to meet someone like her? She was so smart and driven and kind. Unlike Lila. Marinette was going to change the world for real someday—Clara was just step one.

“Well, looks like this is me,” she said as the limo slowed to a stop. “Thanks again for the ride.”

“You’re welcome, anytime.” Adrien pulled her in for a hug, kissing both of her cheeks. “See you soon.”

“See you!”

Adrien leaned back against the seat with a sigh, drumming his fingers as the limo pulled away. Lila needed to be stopped at all costs. If she got in the way of Marinette’s future, he’d never forgive her. He hated to admit it, but after his conversation with Nino and Alya, he’d officially run out of nice options. Lila would continue to use people for as long as she could unless they did something. Unless he did something.

Conflict made his skin crawl, but he owed this to Marinette. If he hadn’t been so complaisant, she wouldn’t have changed schools. She and Alya might still be friends, and he could even see Nino outside of class now. This was all his fault.

Granted, if she had stayed, she may not have the same opportunities now, and she never would have met her new friends. There was some good that had come of this. He couldn’t change the past, but he would make sure Marinette had a bright future—one devoid of Lila and her lies.

“Can we stop by the Grand Paris?” he asked, and after a small huff, the limo changed course. “Thank you!”

When Adrien arrived at Chloe’s suite, she was dressed in a silk robe with a green face mask and cucumbers over her eyes. Several stylists worked on her nails, and although she couldn’t see him, she knew the moment he approached.

“Did you come for a mani-pedi?” she asked.

He shifted his weight. “You told me to come back when I was ready to take down Lila, and… I’m ready.”

“Why should I help you? You didn’t help me when I needed you.” Chloe opened her mouth, and her butler placed a small chocolate on her tongue with a pair of tongs.

“Because we’re friends, and I know you’d do anything for me,” he said. When she opened her mouth for another chocolate, undeterred, he added, “because I know you still sleep with your teddy bear.”

A wicked grin curled on her lips, cracking the half-dried, green paste on her face. “Blackmailing me, Adrikins? I’m impressed. You really have come a long way.”

“Please, Chloe? I’ve tried talking to Alya and Nino. I’ve tried convincing Lila to change. I know I screwed up before, but there has to be something else we can do to stop her.” Adrien dropped to his knees, pressing his palms together. “I’m literally begging.”

Chloe hummed thoughtfully to herself while she chewed another chocolate. “How is Dupain-Cheng these days?” she asked.

Adrien’s heart jumped to his throat. “She’s fine, and I want to keep it that way.”

Chloe’s lip twitched, and she sat up abruptly. Her staff scrambled to remove the cucumbers from her eyes as she stood up to meet Adrien’s gaze head-on. “If I didn’t know any better, I’d say you were in love with her. Why else do you care so much about Lila other than the fact that she’s tarnishing Marinette’s reputation?”

“She’s just a friend, and I don’t want Lila to turn everyone against her,” Adrien insisted.

Chloe rolled her eyes. “Even I don’t believe you when you say that anymore, Adrikins.” She turned and waddled carefully to the bathroom, the bottom of her robe trailing the ground. “Lila might lie to others, but you lie to yourself. I can’t decide which is more painful to watch.”

“Chloe-”

She paused in the doorway and looked over her shoulder. “I will think of something to help you with Lila if it’s so important to you,” she said. “Now, I’ve got a date with a hot bubble bath, so beat it.”

“Thank you, Chloe-”

“Out!” She pointed to the door.

Adrien scurried from her suite, mashing the elevator button repeatedly. He pictured Marinette’s smiling face from that afternoon contrasted against her anguished sobs from only a few days before. Lila would pay for those tears, and Adrien would make sure she never caused them again. He’d protect Marinette Dupain-Cheng, no matter the cost.

♪♫♪ Runaways ♪♫♪

“See you tomorrow!” Marinette waved to Macy and Eliott outside Martin’s apartment a few nights later.

“Are you sure you don’t want a ride?” Macy gestured to Eliott’s open limo.

“Yeah, I’ll manage. The subway isn’t too far from here, and it’s out of your way,” she insisted.

Eliott pursed his lips but didn’t press. “Alright then. See you tomorrow.” He blew her a kiss.

Marinette started up the street alone, enjoying a brief moment of solitude. After changing schools in the middle of the term, she was in need of a good study session, and her new friends were more than happy to oblige. Martin’s ritzy apartment building was smaller than Macy and Eliott’s sprawling mansions, but still far more luxurious than Marinette’s home.

“For having so much, your new friends are surprisingly generous.” Tikki peeked out from her purse.

“Just because they’re rich doesn’t mean they’re not nice people. Look at Adrien. He’s the nicest person I know.” She sighed dreamily before snapping herself out of it. “Martin, Macy, and Eliott have become people I can really count on. I owe them a lot for embracing me the way they have.”

“Do you think they’re worthy replacements for Rena Rouge and Carapace?” Tikki asked.

Marinette pursed her lips with a hum. “Time will tell. I want to be absolutely certain this time. No more mistakes.”

“Oh my gosh, hey!” A strangely familiar voice cooed.

Marinette stopped short, turning over her shoulder as an arm snaked through her own and tugged. Red hair blurred her vision until bright green eyes locked with hers.

“Wow, what are the odds that we’d run into each other. It’s so awesome to see you.”

Marinette’s eyebrows furrowed as Gabrielle dragged her further up the street. Her tight grip stretched Marinette’s shoulders painfully, but something in her voice seemed off. It was familiar and friendly, which was already puzzling enough, but Marinette also detected a hint of…fear?

“Gabrielle, what’s-”

“There are some creepy guys following me, play along, and I’ll leave you alone for a month,” she hissed. “So, what are you up to?”

Marinette grasped her forearm, giving the illusion of familiarity, even if it was to keep her shoulder from popping out of socket. “Uh, just out and about.”

“Hey, we should see a movie next week.” Gabrielle picked up the pace as they rounded a corner.

Marinette struggled to keep up with her long legs. “Yeah, totally!” She used a parked car to catch a glimpse of their assailants in the reflection. “Do you wanna take the subway with me?”

“We need to shake them off first,” Gabrielle said under her breath.

Marinette pressed her lips together, then nodded. “Follow me.”

Gabrielle arched a brow as Marinette took the lead, veering toward the park across the street. She cut diagonally across to the other exit, stealing a glance over her shoulder as they turned another corner. They were still being followed, their assailants picking up speed to match their pace. Marinette checked the time on her phone, abruptly darting across the street to the next block.

“Do you know where we’re going?” Gabrielle asked through clenched teeth.

“Trust me,” Marinette said.

Gabrielle eyed her skeptically but didn’t argue. Marinette pictured the route in her head, imagining the overhead view. She knew this city better than anyone, and as she ducked around one more corner, she finally made the plunge down into the subway. Gabrielle tensed, but Marinette grabbed her wrist and picked up the pace. They slid onto the subway car just before the doors closed, watching smugly as their pursuers slowed to a stop at the base of the stairs just as the train pulled off.

“Thanks.” Gabrielle averted her gaze stubbornly. “You didn’t have to help me.”

“I know,” Marinette said. She grabbed onto the pole as Gabrielle pulled out her phone and resumed ignoring her. “So, what are you doing out walking? Don’t you have a chauffeur?”

“None of your business.”

Marinette’s eyes narrowed on the apron sticking out of her bag, and Gabrielle shifted to hide it. Something weird was going on with her, but Gabrielle was right—it wasn’t any of her business. They were safe, and that was all that mattered.

“I can make it home from here,” Gabrielle said when the train stopped at the next station. “Thanks again.”

“You’re welcome…” Marinette leaned against the pole with a frown as Gabrielle stalked from the car.

“That was odd,” Tikki said from Marinette’s collar.

“Yeah,” Marinette said when the doors slid shut again. “Really odd.”

[mymoonagedaydream]

Lullaby

Summary: You’d learned to live with your nightmares, never expecting to find any kind of remedy

Pairing: Bucky x y/n

Word Count: 2k

Warnings: Language, mentions of parent death

Author's Note: Back on it, ploughing through some lovely requests :)

---

You couldn’t believe it when you got the call.

Tony Stark had chosen you to be his new secretary, effective immediately.

Your flight to New York left the same day, but that wasn’t no issue at all, because you had very few belongings to pack and ever fewer goodbyes to say. No heartache or sentimentality, it was finally time to get away from your past and everything that reminded you of it.

Even though America was huge and bright and terrifying, it felt like your promised land, and you were eager to absorb every last drop of its mystifying beauty. You could barely stop yourself excitedly fidgeting in your plane seat.

Unfortunately, you’d greatly overestimated your capacity for adapting to sudden change. Your first day of work was really overwhelming.

You spent the entire morning just trying to familiarise yourself with the insanely complicated computer system, and a great deal of the afternoon doing the same, only getting a “break” during the hour or so you spent sitting in Tony’s meeting with Steve Rogers, Sam Wilson and Bucky Barnes.

They were all huge, incredibly intelligent and intimidatingly attractive- you’d really been thrown right in at the deep end.

Steve and Sam didn’t take much notice of you, giving polite smiles when they arrived but nothing more than that. You figured that, with this workload, Stark probably cycled through a new secretary every couple of months, so they’d have no real reason to learn your name or engage you in conversation.

Bucky, on the other hand, seemed a little intrigued. You felt his gaze land on you a few times, but whenever you mustered the courage to look back, his eyes immediately flicked away.

It was unbelievably difficult to focus on note-taking whilst being repeatedly studied by this statuesque, mountain of a man.

It was also unbelievably difficult to shake him from your mind even after the meeting had ended. When you finally finished for the day, you were completely exhausted and ready to just collapse.

Thankfully, your bed was only an elevator ride away.

Stark had given you a bedroom in the compound while you were looking for an apartment in the city. You told him you were struggling to find a place you liked but, truthfully, there was no way you could afford a deposit until you got your first pay check through.

You whiled away the evening hours watching some crappy shows and reading, eventually bumbling through your night-time routine and slipping into bed, hoping so much that tomorrow would be just a little easier.  

---

A long, dark hallway stretched out before you. No doors, no windows, no turns, no end.

The soft padding of your bare feet against the ground echoed off the walls as your legs involuntarily marched into the darkness before you.

You focused more intently on the sound. It began to split, a distinct new set of footsteps detaching themselves and moving out of time with yours.

A cold wave of dread trickled down your spine. There was something behind you.

You couldn’t stop, couldn’t run, couldn’t turn. All you could do was carry on walking, forced to helplessly listen to the increasingly fast approach of your pursuer.

Hot, heavy breath brushed against the back of your neck. A set of long, dark claws crept their way into the corner of your vision, twitching manically, before clamping down on your shoulder.

‘Y/n!’

You bolted upright, eyes shooting open as you tried to gulp in deep breaths, heart thumping inside your chest like a jackhammer. Still struggling to separate the residual fragments of your nightmare from reality, you instinctively jerked away the hand firmly gripping your shoulder.

Bucky took the hint and stepped back from your bedside. ‘Are you alright?’

���Jesus.’ You roughly wiped some of the cold moisture from your forehead. ‘Why the fuck are you in my room?’

‘I’m really sorry, I know this is weird but I heard you freaking out in here and I just wanted to make sure you were alright.’

Your gaze flicked towards him, the intense concern in his face confusing you a little.

He didn’t know you at all, why did he care?

You took a few deep breaths and collected your thoughts. Maybe cursing him out like that was a little harsh, he was just trying to help. Besides, if there was any face you wanted to shake you out of a nightmare, it was definitely that one.

‘I’m okay, thank you.’ You swung your legs over the side of the bed, perching yourself right on the edge as you shot him a faint smile. ‘I appreciate you checking up on me.’

‘Anytime.’

He lingered for a few seconds, rubbing his thighs nervously, before giving you a quick nod and heading back towards the corridor. Just as he reached your doorway, he paused, quickly spinning back around.

‘I’ll be in the living room for a while. Y’know, if you struggle to get back to sleep.’

You felt your smile grow into a wide, bashful grin as you watched him disappear down the hall. Your usual post-nightmare routine consisted of splashing cold water on your face and crying for an hour, so hanging out with Bucky was immeasurably preferable.

You debated how long you should wait before joining him, not wanting to miss an opportunity to get to know him better but also worried about coming across overly keen.

Ten minutes seemed reasonable.

Slipping on a sweater, you tiptoed past the other bedrooms on the corridor, hoping to god you wouldn’t wake any of the others and accidentally make a bunch of powerful enemies before you’d even spent your first night here.

Bucky was slouched on the sofa, watching TV with the volume so low that, at first, you thought it was muted. An open but untouched bottle of beer was standing on the table in front of him.

‘D’you have super hearing or something?’

His head snapped towards you, the corners of his mouth curling into a pleasantly surprised smile.

‘Something like that, yeah.’ He patted the seat next to him as he clicked the screen off. ‘There’s never anything worth watching on at this time anyway.’

‘You make it sound like you’re always awake at 4am.’

‘Mhmm. It’s nice to finally have some company.’

Chuckling weakly, you planted yourself next to him, as close as you could without invading his personal space. As soon as you were settled in, you felt him shift towards you.

‘You get nightmares often?’

‘Most nights since I was a kid.’ His mouth fell open slightly. ‘It sucks, but I’ve learned to live with it. They’re not nearly as bad as they used to be.’

‘Really? You were thrashing around like a fish out of water.’

Your face heated up a little when you noticed his playful smirk. ‘Trust me, that’s nothing. When I was eight I dislocated my aunt’s shoulder. Didn’t even wake up when she screamed.’

‘Jesus. You could’a warned me that I was risking my life earlier.’

‘Yeah, sorry. It’s just that, usually, people wait a few days after first meeting me before they come into my room while I’m asleep.’

He cocked a mischievous eyebrow at your teasing. ‘I’ll knock next time.’

‘Good plan.’

You pressed your hand to your mouth to stifle a deep yawn, feeling incredibly drowsy all of a sudden, like you could drift off right there on the couch. The adrenaline from your nightmare must’ve finally worn off, it just never usually happened so quickly.

‘You good?’ Bucky obviously noticed your abrupt decline. ‘You can rest on my shoulder, if you want. Not as comfy as a bed but I can give you a hard shake if you start freaking out again.’

‘Thanks, I’ll try my best not to.’

You didn’t want to intrude too far, so you just leaned over and perched your head on the very edge of his shoulder. Without missing a beat, he shifted himself towards you, causing your head to slide neatly into the crook of his neck.

‘Did they start for a reason?’ You didn’t answer right away, needing a second to figure out how best to word it. ‘It’s alright if you don’t want to talk about it.’

‘No, I don’t mind. They pretty much started right after my parents died. They probably would’ve just stopped on their own after a while if I hadn’t had to move in with my aunt and uncle, pair of fucking assholes.’

He let a low chuckle escape his lips, sliding an arm around your shoulder and squeezing them lightly. ‘Well in that case I hope you did much more than dislocate her arm.’

‘I wish.’

You yawned again, unconsciously nestling your head further into Bucky’s neck and your body into his side, the soft motion of his hand stroking over your shoulder just making you all the more drowsy.

‘It’s alright, you can go to sleep.’ His soft, low voice was like a lullaby. ‘I’m not going anywhere.’ 

As your eyes fluttered closed, you felt your breathing fall in time with his, and you slowly drifted off into the most peaceful sleep you’d had in years.

---

It was a little embarrassing when Steve came across the two of you in the morning, fast asleep on the couch, tangled together like electrical wires. Bucky explained the situation, but Steve didn’t look too convinced by his tale of nightmares and innocent chat.

Even Tony gave you a knowing look as he walked past your desk.

This wasn’t exactly the reputation you’d hoped to build in your first week, but nothing that could’ve shaken your good mood that day. Every time you thought about the night before you couldn’t help grinning to yourself like an idiot.

You even felt more optimistic about your future in the job, everything just seemed so much more straightforward and intuitive.

It was incredible what a difference some good, deep sleep made.

As you were getting ready for bed that night, your heart jumped at the sound of a soft knock against your bedroom door. You inched it open to see Bucky, looking a little nervous, his hands buried deep in the pockets of his sweatpants.

‘Hey, I uh- I was just wondering-’ He paused for a second, narrowing his eyes at you slightly before chuckling and taking a step back. ‘Never mind, it was stupid.’

‘Go on. I promise I won’t laugh.’

You waited as he took a deep breath and steeled himself. ‘Well, I don’t know about you, but I slept better on that couch than I have in years. So I thought-’

‘Do you want to come in?’

You were a little surprised at how easily that’d fallen out of your mouth, and he looked pretty shocked too. ‘You sure?’

‘As long as you’re still willing to give me a cold, hard slap when necessary.’

He chuckled, nodding firmly. ‘I can definitely do that.’

You stepped aside and let him pass, quickly ducking your head into the corridor to check for witnesses before softly pushing your door closed.

After that night, you and Bucky fell into a routine of sneaking between bedrooms after everyone else had gone to sleep.

It was inexplicable, but the two of you just seemed to sleep so much better in each other's company. At first, Bucky had to wake you up and calm you down a couple times a night, but it really wasn’t long before you started sleeping through the night.

Between having him in your life, having your dream job and having the brand new feeling of being consistently well-rested, everything in your life finally felt like it was falling into place.

---

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---

[prophetparadox]

DMC OC Week Day 1: Introduction

(I made this image in a picrew, so it’s not totally accurate to her design but it’s the best I could do with limited options)

It’s officially midnight so fuck it, time to make my first post for this prompt week! I may have just gotten into this series, but I do have an OC and since I plan on writing a fic soon I figured participating in @dmc-oc-week​ was a good way to start! So it’s time to meet my girl Kay! So I’ve filled out an infographic for her, and wrote up a little drabble to go along with this, get ready to learn more about her as the week goes on! Though if you read my stuff on AO3, you’ve probably already seen her a little bit, but let’s get this ball rolling!

Name: Kay [Real Name REDACTED]

Age: Mid-20’s (24-26) (as of DMC5)

DoB: September 26th

Race/Species: Human, mostly...

Height: 5’6”/167 cm

Weight: 117 lbs.

Appearance: Kay has medium length brown hair that goes just above her chest, her left eye is brown but no one knows what her right eye looks like as it’s covered by a dark purple eyepatch and hidden further by her hair covering her right eye. She wears a purple sleeveless top, black capris, a gray hoodie that is usually tied around her waist, light gray boots, and fingerless fishnet gloves.

Personality: Kay is a cheerful albeit socially awkward girl, but she has a stubborn side and isn’t afraid to say what’s on her mind. Emotion wise, she wears her heart on her sleeve and isn’t good at hiding how she feels unless she bottles it up. She tends to be optimistic, but there might be something darker lying deeper... She’s very affectionate towards the people she cares about. That being said, Kay is also rather secretive. She doesn’t open up about her past, being vague and only bringing up as little as possible. It’d take a lot of trust for her to open up about such things. Due to being around Dante for so long, she’s developed a bit of a sarcastic attitude.

Quick Facts/Abilities: Kay primarily wields her axe Fenrir, a Devil Arm, in battle, but she does have firearms training courtesy of Lady and carries around a pistol. Despite her right eye being covered up and hidden, she doesn’t seem to be handicapped by this and behaves as if it weren’t hidden at all. She has a good sense of intuition, being able to know if someone is trustworthy or has demonic power. 

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

It was always strange when the office was quiet. If it wasn’t a song blasting from the jukebox filling the space with noise, it was the chattering of its employees. Even more rare was when the quiet wasn’t because the power had been shut off. But today seemed to be a rare moment where the power was on but not a sound could be heard. But in all honesty, that didn’t really bother the sole occupant of the office at the moment.

Sitting down on the couch with a book in hand was a young woman known simply as Kay. Without any “work” to do, she had time to finish yet another book she’d had on her long pile of things to read. And with the others still asleep, she could enjoy the peace of the lazy April morning. Though admittedly, she was having trouble focusing on the words. Perhaps it was too quiet? Or maybe it was because she hadn’t eaten breakfast yet? She wasn’t sure. All she knew is that the peace and quiet had quickly lost its appeal. Maybe Dante would wake up soon and then they could-

The phone on Dante’s desk began to ring, sounding louder than usual thanks to the deafening quiet. The sudden noise made her nearly fall off the couch. Quickly stuffing her bookmark into the novel, she leapt up from her seat and dashed for the phone. No one else was around to answer, and it might just be a job! She had to take this chance. She picked up the phone, holding on to the possibility that this would be big.

“Devil May Cry!” she answered, as she had many times before. She listened intently to the person on the other end, unable to hide the grin on her face when they gave the password. “Alright, I think we can help you. What’s the issue?” she asked, grabbing a pen and piece of scrap paper so she could write down the details. This was perfect! She could take this job and-

“I’ll be taking that, thank you!” The voice behind her and the sudden stealing of the phone from her hands snapped her out of her good mood. She didn’t even have to guess who it was, she knew that voice all too well.

“Dante, what the hell?!” Kay shouted, turning to face her “boss”. From the looks of it, he’d just tumbled out of bed and was woken up by the phone ringing. He didn’t bother answering her, simply giving a cocky grin in response.

“Sorry about that, mind repeating what you said there?” he said, responding to the client on the phone. Dammit, he was gonna steal the job for himself! She seethed in silence as Dante attentively listened to the client. “Alright then, I’ll be there asap, we’ll discuss payment afterwards,” He put the phone back on the receiver and grabbed Rebellion. “Duty calls, Kay! You know the drill, hold down the fort while I’m gone!”

“Of course you won’t let me come with,” Kay sighed, sitting down in the chair already aware this would be a losing argument. But it was still worth a try, maybe he’d come around for once? “I don’t see why, this assignment isn’t that tricky.”

“Which is why you’re staying here. Besides, someone needs to hold off Lady and Trish if they come knocking! And if there’s anyone I trust the office with, it’s you.”

She knew that was meant to be a compliment, but she’d heard it too many times and was getting tired of it. “Come on, Dante, I’m not a kid! I can handle myself out there, you’ve seen it with your own eyes!” she argued.

“Sorry Kay, but my mind’s made up. This is a one man job, you wouldn’t be able to do much if you came. They’d all be dead before you could swing your axe,” He leaned down to tousle her hair, earning him a groan of annoyance from her. “I’m sorry, but I have my reasons. You’ll understand one of these days. Just trust me, would ya?”

There it was, the excuse he always pulled. He always had his reasons that he never explained and one day she’d totally understand it all. That was usually a sign the conversation was over. “Just go already.” she said with the wave of her hand at the door.

“I’ll make it up to you, kiddo. I’ll treat you to something when I get back!” he said as he walked towards the door, trying to make her feel better. It was hard when by treating her he meant they’d get pizza from a fancier joint than usual and she’d be the one stuck picking it up.

“I’m still not your kid, Dante! I’m a grown woman!” she called out as he made his way out the door. Once again, she was left alone in the office.

Kay stood up and made her way over to the kitchen, unable to ignore her hunger and resigned to eating alone. She was so tired of being left behind with no explanation. She’d been fighting demons long before she met Dante, but he just seemed content to make her watch the office and pick up pizzas or coffee. She was getting tired of this, she wanted to see some action again! Go out in the field and kick demon ass! But noooooo, she was stuck here.

Maybe one day she’d be able to head out there again, prove to Dante that she was just as capable as him or the girls, take down demons like she used to. But clearly that wasn’t today. But soon, something had to happen soon. They’d get a job so big that he couldn’t leave her behind and then he’d see! Or at least that’s what she kept telling herself.

But for some reason, she felt as if that hope would become reality soon enough. She could just be getting her hopes up, but she wanted to believe her intuition was right. If only she could see the future and know for certain… Until then, she’d just stay here and hope that someone would walk through the door or dial their number and change everything.

[mrvdocks]

Plus One Finale

Summary: You and Steve make up. Steve plans for the future ahead.

A/N: We finally made it to the end, thanks to everyone who read it and liked it and reblogged it. :))

@mochminnie​, @80strashbag​, @artsymaddie​, @har-rison-s​, @theblueslytherin​, @prettysbliss​, @deliberatequeen​, @fl0ating​, @crystalyn-aurelia​, @itsbabybat​, @bellasymph​, @hawishima​, @hvtelcalifornia​, @stevexharringtonx​, @fisherbrookphotos​, @revangeline​

He paced back and forth in the hallway of the animal clinic, somehow both muttering to himself and racking his head for some way to reply other than the incredulous reaction he just gave you.

You squeezed your eyes shut and shook your head. You knew it, you knew it was too soon to say. 

You cross your legs in an attempt to stop the distracting bouncing of your leg and ease your nerves. 

Sure he just confessed he loved you and apologized, but now that you could possibly be pregnant? What if that was the dealbreaker?

“Steve.” You call, attempting to break him from his trance.

He mutters more, going much too fast for you to understand. 

“Steve!” You exclaim, unable to take the suspense.

He stops and turns to face you, visibly shaken. You exhale shakily, trying to keep yourself steady emotionally.

“Listen, if what you said earlier is true, then this is nothing.”

“This is nothing? (Y/N) we’re bringing someone else into our messed up lives. What if we’re terrible parents?”

You stand and take his worrisome hand in yours, “So we don’t have the best model. That’s fine! They’re not the ones raising this kid, it’s us. It’s you and me.” 

He bites his lip in thought, eyes falling to his feet. You felt your heart race as you tried to decipher his emotions. You loved Steve, kid or no kid. But this was something you two needed to face. 

“I don’t know. I - ” he shrugs. 

You try not to remember the last time he shrugged and what followed. 

“You and I don’t need to make a decision so quickly. We can sleep on it. Alright?” You try to be comforting, smoothing out the lines on his disheveled shirt.

He seems to relax at this and nods. You nod in conclusion.

“I’ll be back.” He says, letting go of your hands and walking down the dimly lit corridor. 

“Where are you going?” 

He won’t leave you, right? 

“I have to do something. I’ll see you back home.” 

He leaves in a rush. It hit you then. Home. You were dreading returning to the apartment all this time because you were afraid of the confrontation. 

You had planned on coming back sure, maybe yell at him or take Mickey as you’d promised, but the thought of having to confront his issues and your own made your stomach do somersaults. And not in the good way. 

But it seemed to turn out fine. You sighed. 

You and Steve barely got by as it is. Robin’s leave put more strain on both of you to come up with rent money. Neither you nor Steve were too content in your career choices, and God knows the place would get cramped with a kid. 

It was hard to be an optimist in these trying times but you tried to hold out hope. Maybe things would get better. After all, you had new friends, you’d made new connections. Who knows where that would take you. 

You wondered what your sister would say. For once, you valued her input in this. 

Honestly, the thought of the future from this point on made your heart race. 

Steve was capable of growth…..right?

Once Mickey was cleared to go home, you let out a breath of relief you didn’t realize you were holding. Things felt a lot lighter, it was a weight off of your shoulders. Though a tiny pebble by the name of Steve remained. 

You carried your dozed pet out in your arms in the early hours of the morning, choosing to walk it home and avoid another Danny encounter. 

It was a chilly week in November. The crunch of the leaves under your feet wasn’t enough to rouse Mickey awake but you kept count of how many you stepped on.

You don’t recall how long it took you to get home. It was most likely the autopilot in you flipping on, your head just too worried about other things at the moment. 

You just know you’d made it home without a scratch. You kick away the pile of mail at the foot of your doorstep and take the extra key under the mat. Once you’re inside, the warmth of the radiator kicks in, letting your body relax after the tensing up of your muscles to keep warm outside. 

You lay Mickey down in his makeshift bed, the foot tub with a mix of yours and Steve’s old shirts. He grumbles in his sleep, his tiny tongue peaking out in lazy and unconscious movement. 

You shake off Jonathan’s coat and drape it over your body like a blanket and collapse onto the couch, too lazy to curl up into your own bed. 

You shiver as you run your hands over your arms and cup your hands together to blow air into them. The tiredness from walking and overall excitement of the day weighed over you from the way you felt your eyelids start to fall. 

You blink once, twice, and then fall asleep just in time to see Mickey kick and stretch his paws in his sleep.

Steve pants as he reaches the door of the room at the hotel his father’s staying at. He’d been too hasty to berate his future stepbrothers once he saw what they’d done to Mickey. 

He knocks rapidly on the door, seeming like a madman to the couple who’s just leaving their own room and staring at him. He composes himself, zips his jacket up, and gives a faint nod as they pass him.

His dad opens the door a second later. “Hey kiddo, what’s with the commotion?”

“She’s pregnant.” Steve regurgitates your confession to his father. Don’s mouth falls open slightly. 

He closes it and stammers. He turns to check on the kids in the room, seeing them preoccupied with the tv. When the coast is clear, he closes the door behind him and stays with Steve outside in the hallway. 

“I - that was fast.” Don chuckles, feeling flustered for his son. “What did you tell her?”

“I ran here to tell you!” 

Don’s hand comes up to pinch the bridge of his nose in disappointment.

“So you’re telling me, the girl of your dreams, the one you’ve been miserable over breaking her heart, just told you she’s pregnant and the first thing you do is leave her and run to me??” 

Steve understands the gravity of the situation but he is stuck on the thought that he needed all the advice he could squeeze out of his father.

“Basically.” He says simply.

Don sighs. “What’s the problem, then?”

Steve’s shoulders slump. “I don’t know how to be a dad. In case you haven’t noticed I didn’t have the best model.”

Don nearly rolls his eyes. 

“Is that really the reason, or is there another?”

Steve stays silent, contemplating while his eyes scan every inch of the hallway from the detail on the carpeting to the colors. 

“I guess….I’m not happy with where I am right now. I’m pushing thirty in two years, I’m a bartender, everyone I know got married and I just feel like I’m out of time. But Dad, this girl. She - she’s everything I’m not. She’s spontaneous and funny and sarcastic and - I don’t know, sometimes I just feel like she could be doing so much better than me.”

Don places a hand on Steve’s shoulder and gently shakes him. “Hey, don’t say that. You’re a Harrington, you’re a catch!” 

Steve half smiles at the encouragement. 

“Steve, everyone progresses through milestones differently. No one knows what they’re doing. And if we’re being honest, I think you just have to find what you like and hold onto it. Something that makes you want to get out of bed every day and just take all of the bull that life throws at you because, at the end of the day, that something is always going to be there. Have you found something to do that for you?”

Steve nearly dissociates altogether as he falls deep in thought as his father speaks. His mind reeling the montage of memories his brain concocts like film. 

He sees you the day you walked into the apartment and into his life, covered in dirty water from being sprayed by a taxi on the curb and taking it in stride and making jokes about it. He sees you dancing in the kitchen to god awful music he’d grown to love in a big shirt and long socks. He sees the way your eyes crinkle when you laugh hysterically at the prospect of trying to help him find dates. The image of you sitting near the radiator with a book in hand and your thinking face. 

He thinks these past few months might’ve just been the best ones he’s ever had. Before he went and ruined it. 

He didn’t think he would experience something like this after Nancy. He thought he could just run away from Hawkins and leave the bad memories there, but they crept up on him when he least expected it. His fear was not your fault. 

He was done running and he was ready to grow. 

“Yeah,” he nods. “I think I do.”

The phone ringing off the hook startled you awake. You sit upright, finding Jonathan’s coat at your feet and Mickey pawing at the phone cord. He wriggles his head side to side when he finally gets the cord in between his teeth. 

“I’m coming, I’m coming.” You mutter to yourself. You pick Mickey up with swift ease and pull the cord out of his mouth to pick up the phone.

“I’m up.” You announce somewhat sleepily into the phone.

“Good! I have news!” Nancy’s rapid-fire voice comes through and alerts you awake.

“Wait! I did it, Nance! I told him!”

“Oh, what did he say?”

“He….kind of took off.”

“He what?!” 

“Okay to be fair, a lot has happened in the past,” you glance at your wrist to see you’ve been asleep for a while. “Five hours? Geez.” 

“Okay, okay. Well, we don’t have to worry about this anymore.”

“What do you mean?”

“The tests! They’re faulty! They’re recalling them for false positives or something. I don’t know but Kali just called to tell me.”

“Oh….” You trail off. 

In a way, you're very relieved. And yet also a little disappointed. But very relieved.

“What’s wrong?” Nancy senses something’s off. “I figured you’d breathe a little better if you knew the truth.”

“No I am,” you say, cradling Mickey in your arm like a mom with a baby on her hip. “I don’t know, I guess I kind of made my peace with it.”

“Oh, well hey, maybe it’s a good conversation starter for both of you.”

You lean against the wall where the phone hangs, letting your furry son sit on the counter. “Yeah maybe. I mean, it was all too fast anyways.”

“Yeah! You have lots of time. Just take baby steps. I think slow and steady would put yours and his mind at ease.”

You had to agree. Time had to heal all wounds. You two had to start again, without interruptions. 

You finish talking to Nancy, reassuring her that you’d need to get over the first wave of shock and tell him when he turned up. She offered to go over but you’d declined. When everything’s over, you collapse onto the couch again, slumping as far as your back would let you. Your stomach protruding a little from under your tee. You roll up the lower half of your shirt and let it sit above your belly button. 

You prod your fingers at nothing, feeling odd and a little bit silly at the thought that there would be a little person in there. 

Mickey whimpers. 

“Looks like you’re the baby still.” You chuckle, scratching behind his ears.

The peace and silence are broken by the door swinging open to reveal an out of breath Steve. You straighten up immediately and pull your shirt down. 

“Are you okay?” You ask, making a pass to reach for him but he sticks a hand out for you to wait as he regains his composure. 

“I’m….fine…..just have to….talk...holdonaminute.”

He’s visibly sweating, beads of sweat on his forehead. He looks like he just ran track. His pants come to a slow until he’s back to normal. He puts his hands on his knees and it takes everything in you to not make an old joke for the sake of the seriousness of the situation.

He stands up straight, keeping his eyes trained on you, and with a softness in them, you feel at ease.

“I quit my job.” He says finally.

Your eyes widen. “You what?”

The confession hung in the air, settling in like the warmth of the radiator. He rushes to you and kneels before you can leap up off the couch and takes your hands in his. 

“Hear me out. Before you get mad, just hear me out.”

“Okay.” 

“I’ve done a lot and I mean a lot of reassessment about you, me, everything. If we’re going to do this, I want them to be proud of me. I want to be there for them as much as I can be. I’m starting over. At 28.” 

You stifle a laugh but release it when Steve takes the initiative to laugh at himself. 

“So….what are you going to be doing now?” You give his hands a squeeze, utterly terrified at the plunge he’s taking.

He looks as if he hasn’t planned that far ahead besides quitting. “I….don't know. But it’s, um, kind of cool. I get to see a bunch of different jobs. Find out what I really like.” 

“And, what’s that?”

“You.” He smiles, the sight of it sending butterflies free in your stomach. “I like you. So, so much. You’re not hard to get at all, you’re hard to earn. I’d take that over any messy, drunk bridesmaid.”

You tilt your head, feeling the corners of your lips lifting and before you know it, you’re grinning like an idiot.

“And that’s why,” he says, his right hand leaving yours and digging into his pocket to bring out a plastic ring from the bubble gum machines in the laundromat downstairs, “I’m jumping in, all the way.”

“Steve…” You’re nearly speechless. “Oh my god, what are you doing?”

“I know it’s not perfect or big or shiny. But this is just a placeholder for now. I’m all in if you are.” He holds the ring with the pink gem in his fingers, waiting for you.

Maybe it’s the fact that ever since you started to see him in a different light since the start of the year, you’d determined that you’d follow him anywhere. Whether he’d have you or not. Even with his moods and awkwardness and clumsiness. He’d been scored on your heart. You’d marry him with paper rings.

“I’m not pregnant.” You reveal.

His face softens. “What?”

“Nancy called earlier before you came. The tests were faulty. I just wanted you to know that so that wasn’t the only reason you decided to do this.”

It was and wasn’t the reason. But in all honesty, he didn’t think he could bear to stomach the idea of not being with you or the image of you with someone else. He also doesn’t think starting over with someone else was the best idea, you two had been through so much in two years. You shared a particular connection. One that he now realizes he had been looking through seas of beige and silvers and golds. 

“It’s not,” he titters, “I don’t care that we don’t have the meet-cutes or the chance run-ins. That’s not what love really is. I thought it was more complex but it’s so - simple. It’s about being comfortable with someone and wanting to hang out with them as long as it’s humanly possible….and just not trying to mess it up the way I did.”

Your heart swells. This is love for him. This is him planting his foot in the sand and not running away when the sea rushes for him. Anyone else would’ve ditched him the moment things got ugly. But you were nothing if devoted.

“Yes, Dingus. I’m in too.” You nod, overjoyed as you feel your eyes get watery. 

Don & Mary’s Wedding

December 25, 1994

Hawkins, Indiana

“Okay, okay, how does this look?” Steve asks, fixing his tux for the fifth time that day. 

You roll your eyes. “You look fine babe, honestly. We’ve ironed the jacket out twice. Any more and I think you’re going to set it on fire and then you’ll upstage the bride.”

Steve snorts, fixing the knot on his tie. “I’m sorry. I’m just so nervous. I can’t mess up the speech.”

You fix the starchy collar of his shirt. “I’ve heard it many times and I think you’ll do great. Just don’t think too much about it.”

“You don’t think it’s too late to back out?” 

“I think,” You pull him by his tie close to your face to tease him. “If you can get through this, you can either have the best after-party experience or you can get the new fridge.”

Steve purses his lips, conflicted. “We do need a new fridge.”

You playfully smack his arm as you feign offense. 

“I’m kidding, I’m kidding.” He repeats, enveloping you in a hug. 

“Whoa, whoa, easy on the goods.” You say, smoothing out the easily crinkled fabric of your dress. 

“I’m always easy on them.” He jests, slipping in innuendo that you still find yourself blushing to.

“Alright, alright. Let’s go before they start guessing why we’re late.” 

You climb onto his back and ride him piggyback all the way to the elevator. He goes over his speech one more time as you descend and tries to tell a joke at the end that doesn’t stick the landing. 

You arrive just in time, settling at the table next to the newlyweds. You pat Steve on the shoulder, give him a glass, and wish him good luck. “Go get ‘em.” 

He kisses you tenderly before he goes up on stage, feeling like a teen again the way his senses go crazy when he kisses you. He fumbles his way up the stairs to the microphone making you hold back a laugh. He composes himself a second later.

“Hey everyone! Thanks for coming. I’m Steve. Most of you know me as Don’s son. And if you’re wondering why I’m up here giving his best man speech, so am I.”

The crowd of family and friends laugh in unison.  

Steve fixes his footing and his grip on the champagne glass tightens. 

“The truth is, I put up a pretty big stink about all of this. I didn’t want to do it. To me, a second marriage was ill-advised. I mean, my parents’ divorce was pretty hard to swallow. But also, I just didn’t get it. I believed in things like fate and love at first sight, that once you found the one, that was the ballgame.”

He scans the crowd, passing familiar faces like Jonathan and Nancy, Dustin and Suzie, Robin and Kali, each one helping take the pressure off just a bit. He stops when he lands on you, your warm smile and thumbs up making him feel better.

“But the truth is, if you spend your whole life looking for something perfect, you wind up with nothing. See, there are many innings in this ball game and I don’t think it's about good timing or fate. It’s about trying not to mess up.”

He locks eyes with you for the last part.

“But you will mess up. No matter how hard you try, you’ll get in your own head. But if you can learn from your mistakes, you might just end up with something...even better.”

“I’d like to raise a glass,” He says, raising his cup along with everyone else. “Dad, Mary, congratulations.”

The guests applaud as Don is overcome with emotion and wipes at his happy tears and takes his son in a bear hug. Steve is taken aback by the sudden strength of his father and nearly drops his glass.

The party goes off without a hitch. Steve actually partakes in the festivities with pride and even makes an attempt to get to know his stepbrothers. He laughs at their awful attempts at jokes and bestows some girl advice when they ask him about you. Jonathan, Nancy, Robin, Kali, Dustin and Suzie all congratulate Steve when they find out what the pink stone on your finger means. You meet Steve’s mom for the first time, a charming and lovely woman who is eager to show you loose baby pictures in her clutch and embarrassing stories.

You wait on the sidelines watching as the new Harrington family take their family photos. Mary and Steve talk in what seems to be a sincere and sweet conversation. Don is trying to bribe the rambunctious kids with sweets if they can sit still for the photo. Jonathan glances from them to you.

“Hey,” He asks from behind the camera. “Why aren’t you in there?”

You open your mouth to justify it until Don speaks up.

“He’s right. What are you doing there? Come in! Come in!” He waves you over with encouragement until the entire Harrington gang begins to beg for you to jump in.

“Come in sweetie!” Mary cheers.

You’re about to make your way until Steve leaves the group and carries you over his shoulder. Jonathan smirks as he takes multiple photos, taking advantage of the candid moment. Steve’s stepbrothers singsong about you two kissing in a tree. The Harrington party make a mixture of sounds and cheers as Steve puts you down and wraps his arms around you in a prom pose. You go with it, feeling like you belonged in this crazy puzzle with other people. The little kids make a disgusted sound when you peck Steve on the cheek.

He kisses the top of your head in return and gives you a squeeze. 

For the first time in his life, Steve’s not afraid of the future. 

[ijustwant2write]

Not A Secret-Bonnie Gold x Shelby!Reader

(GIF credit to @paquim)

Tags: @jenepleurepasbaby @amirahiddleston @bloodorangemoonlight

Requested by anonymous: 'I literally check the bonnie gold tag everyday and was so HAPPYYYY when I saw your fic, I absolutely love the idea of finns twin sister being with bonnie or even just the youngest shelby sis being with him so wondering if I could get a fic with that premise please :)'

Summary: Although (Y/N) is terrified about what her brothers may do when they find out she is in a relationship, she doesn't want to be the dirty little secret Bonnie has to keep.

Characters: Bonnie Gold x Shelby!Reader, Finn Shelby x Shelby!Reader (siblings), Polly Gray x Shelby!Reader (family), Isaiah Jesus x Shelby!Reader (platonic), Tommy Shelby x Shelby!Reader (siblings)

Meanings: (Y/N)=Your name

Warnings: Swearing, arguing, angst, slight violence, lotta fluff

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

"Who are you dressed up for?" Finn asked as I walked into the kitchen.

"Myself." I snapped.

"I'm not an idiot-"

"Says the one who didn't finish school."

He scoffed."Come up with a better insult if you're so clever."

I retaliated by grabbing a slice of toast off his plate.

"I'll tell Tommy."

"Tell him what?" I slumped into the chair opposite him."That I knicked your toast?"

"No! That you're sneaking around."

"Do you have any evidence?"

He hesitated."No."

"Exactly, because nothing is going on."

"We're twins, I can sense it."

"Oh, fuck off Finn."

"I'm gonna find out-"

"Why would it be so bad if I was seeing someone? What if we're just fucking?"

"That's even worse!" he raised his voice.

"You do it all the time!" I shouted back.

"What the fuck is all this racket?" Polly yelled over us both, hands on her hips as she stood in the doorway.

"Sorry Pol, someone's just being a complete arse hole." I sneered, brushing past her and grabbing my coat from the hallway.

"What is she on about?" I heard her say, but I escaped out the front door before I could be questioned further.

Finn was on the right track, and I was scared that I hadn't been careful enough. Finn and I used to tell each other everything, but like the rest of our family, we started keeping our own secrets; but Finn would rat me out almost every time just to get on Tommy's good side. It pissed me off to no end.

The truth was, I was seeing someone. He had just become a Blinder himself, it must have been around two months, which was how long I had known him for. Bonnie Gold, the boy with a dream for boxing, had boldly asked me out, and I confidently accepted. He was handsome and charming, it had nothing to do with pissing off my brothers (which is what they would say if they knew about us). Of course I didn't want to tell everyone about us straight away, we had to see if it worked. But when I realised how much I would think about this man day in and day out, it became all too real, and I knew my feelings were strong.

However, because I was a fucking Shelby, that meant everything had to be a secret. And I hated it! It felt wrong, like I was in trouble with something. It was as if I was doing a job for my brothers, something illegal and dangerous. But it wasn't. It was the exact opposite. It was care free, loving and I felt immensely happy. However, Bonnie didn't think the same as I, believing that we should remain hidden until my brothers were in a good place, wait for a time where they weren't being threatened by anyone or had trouble within the business...like that was ever going to happen.

I waited beside the country road we always met on. Hardly anyone drove down here because they were scared of the gypsies that lived nearby, including my gypsy boy. Perching on a fallen tree, I sighed, fiddling with the skirt of my dress, thinking of all the ways this conversation could go wrong. Should I even bring it up? Should I even state my feelings about all of this? What if he didn't agree and we fell out? Or worse...

I was startled when I felt a pair of lips kiss my cheek, and I jumped away, only to have Bonnie grab me.

"For fucks sake Bonnie," I laughed as he kept kissing me all over my face,"you can't sneak up on me like that."

"You just looked so pretty sitting there." he grinned, helping me to my feet.

Our hands were intertwined as we gazed into each others eyes. Fuck, this was going to be hard.

"So, what brings you all the way down here?" he asked, guiding me towards the forest.

"Well, besides wanting to see you, I need to talk to you about something."

His smiled faltered."That doesn't sound good."

"It's about us being a secret-"

"We've gone over this (Y/N)."

"Yes, I know. But I hate it Bonnie! It's like you're ashamed to tell anyone about us-"

"I'm not ashamed." he stopped walking, turning me to face him."Im worried what your brothers will do."

"I won't let them hurt you."

He scoffed."They could beat me till I was black and blue and I wouldn't care. But they're powerful enough to keep you away from me. And if I retaliated, they could keep us apart for...well forever."

"Then I'll stay with you. We can leave a letter behind, a note to say that we're in love and we've run away and-"

"You'll really leave your family?"

"I..." I sighed, looking down at my feet."No, not like that. But Finn is becoming suspicious, and I know that if he finds out he'll tell Tommy. I'd rather it be us."

“(Y/N), I don’t want to sneak around either, but I’m only just making a name for myself in boxing. And your brother has helped me with that.”

I rolled my eyes, snatching my hands away as I crossed them over my chest.“I know boxing is your dream, but you’ve also said that I was part of those dreams.”

“You are! But if I don’t make enough money for us, how are we supposed to buy a house together? How are we supposed to get married?”

“How are we supposed to do any of those things if we don’t tell my family?”

His fists were clenching, but I knew this was his way of controlling his anger so he wouldn’t shout at me.

“I’m sorry that I even bothered to bring this up. Let’s just forget about it.”

“No, you’re right.”

“Are you sure?”

“It’s just that...what if they don’t accept it?”

“Obviously it matters what they think, I do love my family. But you’ve been there for me more than they have, you haven’t changed, even when you became a Blinder. Even Finn changed, he’s horrible now, I don’t feel like he’s my twin anymore.”

“I don’t want to split up your family.”

“Are we even that much of a family anymore? It's so difficult because I love them, and whenever we argue it feels horrible, but at the same time I can easily hate them. They've done bad things, they always say it's for the good of the family and the business in the end, but still, they go about it the wrong way."

Bonnie held my hands again, bringing one of them to his lips, gently kissing my knuckles."I don't want you to be torn from your family. It isn't fair."

"We can do this Bon," I squeezed his hands,"we'll tell them together. I know that if Finn opens his big mouth, he'll ruin everything."

"I've got a meeting tomorrow with them, about my next match. Come with me and we'll tell them then."

"We'll do it after you've fixed the match, I won't destroy your dream."

Although I left feeling more anxious than I ever felt, there was some feeling in me that was optimistic. Perhaps my brothers would see that Bonnie had a steady future. He was boxing and working for them, so he was under their control, and they knew all about his family; Bonnie was able to keep me safe, and the love between us was obvious.

Once back in town, I headed to aunt Pol's, but was stopped by Finn, with Isaiah stood behind him. He had that fucking cocky smirk of his, hands in pockets as he started speaking.

"Where have you been off to today then?" he asked.

"Hello Isaiah, it's been a while."

"You alright (Y/N)?" Isaiah smiled.

"You gonna answer my question?" Finn interrupted.

"I had to get out of the house and away from you. I've been wandering aimlessly seeing as I'm always being watched, apparently."

"What happened to you (Y/N)?"

"Oh, don't start." I moaned."Stop acting all high and minty just because your balls have finally dropped."

I started to walk away, but he harshly grabbed my arm, yanking me back to him."What the fuck is wrong with you?"

"Get off me you prick!"

"Guys," Isaiah ripped us apart,"not now not here."

As soon as I was free from his grip, I marched away, ducking my head to avoid the nosy stares from people in the street. As I got to Polly's house, I let out a small, frustrated scream, pulling off my shoes and throwing them on the floor.

"Oi! What have my floors ever done to you?" Polly tutted.

I didn't answer, storming upstairs to my room and slamming the door. Finn made me so angry, and what made me more upset was the fact that I no longer felt close to him. He was the stereotypical, protective older brother (by five minutes), teaching me how to defend myself and keeping me away from the family business. But as we grew older, becoming young adults, being more aware of the world around us, we changed. Finn changed completely, no longer the sweet, young boy I knew, but now a ruthless, slimy, conniving businessman.

"(Y/N) what's..." Polly's voice trailed off as the sound of the door opening again interrupted her."Finn, what's going on with your sister? What have you done?"

"She's hiding something Pol! I don't know what it is, but she's keeping a secret from us all, she's being cruel."

My eyes shot wide open at his words, and I almost sprinted back downstairs. Polly stood on the first step, holding me back as I ran down the stairs, ready to attack Finn.

"You're a fucking horrible brother, Finn!" I screamed with tears streaming down my face."Why can't you just leave me alone? Leave me out of the business!"

"Right!" Polly raised her voice over mine."Get in the kitchen, both of you. We're going to sit down, and talk about what's happening here."

Finn left first, Isaiah hesitantly following. Poly didn't let go of me until he was gone, slowly releasing me. I wanted to keep screaming, shout at the top of my lungs so much that it hurt. However, I silently made my way into the other room, feeling Polly's eyes on the back of my head. I sat opposite from Finn, just as we had that morning, keeping my eyes down as Polly and Isaiah adjudicated the match that was about to begin. Perhaps Bonnie should have shown me more boxing moves...

"So, Finn, what started all of this?" Polly asked.

"Why does he get to go first?" I scoffed, furiously wiping away my tears.

Polly just had to look at me to shut me up.

"All (Y/N) ever does is sneak off everyday and she never tells me where she's going. And whenever I ask her about it she snaps at me and gets all defensive. All I'm trying to do is help her."

"Help me?!"

"(Y/N) I suggest you calm down before you speak." Polly said.

I took a moment to breathe, but couldn't help blurt everything out."How on earth are you helping me? You pry into everything I do, wanting to find anything wrong with me just so you can report back to Tommy. And then whilst he's having a go at me, you're down at the Garrison, being praised like you've actually done something useful. But you haven't. You've never been able to do anything to live up to John, so you've gone against your sister just for a pat on the back."

Finn's nostrils were flaring, his breathing deep as I saw his anger building up. I didn't feel great about what I had said, but it also felt good to hurt him. He always spoke down to me, why couldn't I do it to him?

"I understand that you're trying to move up in the business, actually be taken serious by someone like Tommy. But how are they meant to treat you like an adult, when all you do is tell tales about your little sister as if we were five again?"

He shot up from this chair, and I quickly copied, watching as he rounded the table to stand in front of me; we would have been nose to nose if not for the height difference. Polly and Isaiah almost jumped to separate us, but I held out my hand. This had been a long time coming.

"You don't understand what I'm doing for you." Finn said through gritted teeth.

"No, I don't. So enlighten me, explain yourself."

"You're going to end up hurt if you keep going off with that gypsy boy."

"Gyspy boy?" Polly gasped."What fucking gypsy boy?"

"He's lying Polly."

"I'm not though, am I (Y/N)? You say I'm the one who can't do anything right in this family, but let me ask you this-what have you ever done? You don't get the respect you crave from anyone else, so you start seeing someone beneath you in order to feel something."

"He is not lower than anyone, how dare you!"

"Who isn't? (Y/N) have you been gallivanting off with some gypsy boy behind our backs?" Polly said, but I didn't break eye contact.

"Come on (Y/N), just admit it. Let then all know about your little secret."

He was smirking. The damn bastard was smirking, he was enjoying every second of this. Yelling out, I lunged at him, slapping him across the face before shoving him away from me, repeatedly hitting his chest over and over. Isaiah rushed over, pulling me away from him, but kicked him in the shin, going for Finn again when Polly stood between us, slapping me across the face. I stumbled back in shock, clutching onto my cheek.

"I have never seen you two argue like this, and it is useless! But more importantly, what do you think you're doing young lady?" Polly snapped.

"It's always my fault, just because I'm the youngest-"

"Just tell me who it is!"

"It's Bonnie!"

It was finally silent in the room. Everyone was taking in what had been said. I took in a shaky breath before speaking again.

"I promise, I was going to tell you all tomorrow, after Bonnie's meeting with Tommy. I was the one who wanted to stop keeping it a secret."

"So how come he doesn't want to say anything?" Finn said.

"He was hesitant because of his boxing. You all know it's his dream. Which is why I wanted it to be in a calm environment, tell you all one at a time. Please, none of you can say anything, not until tomorrow."

"How long has this been going on for?" Polly asked, not looking so angry.

"Two months, maybe three."

"And you're serious?"

"Yes! Look, we're not rushing into marriage or anything. I mean, we've talked about it, but he's focusing on his career first. I told him to do that."

"Pol, come on, it's Bonnie we're talking about." Finn groaned.

"What's your point?" she argued back."Finn, I know you want to look out for your sister, but she's not stupid. She wouldn't put herself in a relationship of the boy was going to fuck her over."

"It could be worse Finn." Isaiah piped up."At least we know the guy, Bonnie is a good lad."

"Finn," I grabbed his attention back,"you have to promise me you won't tell Tommy. I have to do this myself."

Finn nodded, then huffed, looking at us all before leaving. Isaiah was quick to follow, throwing a small smile my way.

Polly placed her hands on my shoulder, guiding me into a chair."Right, sit down you. You're going to tell me everything, from the beginning."

It had been a huge relief to finally tell someone. And it wasn't as if I was being Punoshed and forced to tell the truth. I could gush about how amazing he was, the lovely things he said to me, the thought out dates he had taken me on when he didn't have the money, and what he would buy me after he saved up especially. Polly was smiling throughout, which gave me a sense that she was there for me. Now all I had to do was tell Tommy.

Finn kept his promise, or at least I thought he had because my door hadn't been kicked down with my older brother yelling at me. It had been a restless night, tossing and turning, wondering whether I should risk telling everyone else right now. Bonnie hadn't done that many matches, enough for people to recognise him though. What if Tommy ruined everything for him? What if they cut all ties with their family and their protection, making us more vulnerable? However, Polly, Finn and Isaiah already knew, and it would only be a matter of time before they told everyone else.

No one was in the house when I woke. The silence was annoying. Usually I longed for the peacefulness, but today I was alone with my annoyingly loud thoughts. I had checked my appearance multiple times before leaving, as if that would make any difference. Paranoia set in as I walked through the streets. Somehow I thought that they all knew my secret, and were all staring at me. What a drama queen.

As I got closer to Charlie's yard, I went over my rehearsed speech, ready to defend my love. Tommy was stood with Bonnie and his dad, Aberama, of course he was smoking as they discussed their business. I wasn't expecting Aberama, the embarrassment was already setting in. They all noticed me as I approached, falling silent as they watched me; Bonnie instinctively smiled.

"(Y/N)? What's wrong?" Tommy asked, slight concern in his voice.

"Nothing is wrong." I replied, standing beside him.

"Then why are you here? We're discussing business."

"Oh, I can wait till you're finished."

"No, no, say your peace now. We're basically finished."

"Right...um..." my words disappeared, the prepared speech suddenly gone.

"(Y/N) and I have secretly been seeing each other." Bonnie casually stated.

Aberama and Tommy glanced between us, watching as Bonnie boldly took my hand, tugging me towards him.

"You what?" Tommy stamped out his cigarette.

"It's true. It's been going on for two months." I mumbled.

Tommy pointed at Aberama."Did you know about this?"

Aberama was smirking."No, and I'm impressed that they hid it so well."

"He's fucking impressed."

"Tommy, we weren't doing this to aggravate anyone. We didn't mean to sneak around, but we wanted to make sure this relationship was working before we told you." I explained.

"(Y/N) was the one who told me we should tell you all. I'm sorry Mr Shelby, I didn't mean to go behind your back." Bonnie sincerely said.

"We were also hesitant because of his boxing. He is so loyal to you after all you've done. Please don't stop all of this because of me-"

Tommy held his hand up, shutting me up. Bonnie squeezed my hand for reassurance.

"Mr Shelby, may I butt in for a moment?" Aberama asked."You say this has been going on for two months?"

I nodded."Uh, yes, three months at the most."

"And in that time, Bonnie has attended all his matches, and followed your instructions, and has also completed all of his Blinder duties he was assigned. Not once has he faltered. And he did all of this whilst secretly meeting with your sister."

Aberama was on our side. Perhaps this would help ease Tommy into the idea.

"Fine, they are but a few good points." Tommy coughed."You two sure you're serious?"

We both nodded, cuddling closer together.

He let out a long sigh."If Bonnie can continue staying on track with boxing and business, then I'll allow it. But this can't effect any of our work."

"It won't Mr Shelby, I promise." Bonnie smiled.

"Thank you Tommy." I said, catching the second his eyes softened before he and Aberama turned to leave.

Aberama looked over his shoulder, winking at us before turning to speak with Tommy again. I faced Bonnie, squealing with delight before throwing my arms around him. He grabbed my cheeks, cheekily kissing me with his hands travelling down to my waist. He almost went lower until I stopped it, and I heard him whine as I pulled away.

"Bonnie, do you know what this means?" I breathed out.

"My place or yours?" he grinned.

"What? No! I'm not on about that." I laughed."We get to walk around holding hands, we get to kiss in public, we get to not so subtly sneak away from parties, and everyone knows we're having sex."

"(Y/N), I'm serious now, otherwise I might just have to take you here."

"I'd prefer if you didn't mate." Finn startled us appearing from seemingly nowhere.

Bonnie and I pulled apart, our hands still intertwined, our cheeks flushing red.

"Finn, I-"

"Don't worry Bonnie. I'll get used to it. I think."

"So you didn't end up telling him." I said.

"No. You were really upset the other day and I haven't seen you like that before, not that angry anyway. I'm actually here to apologise."

"Oh."

"I am truly sorry (Y/N). I've been a shit brother for the past year, and I was too proud to recognise that."

"I forgive you. I'm sorry for yesterday as well, you didn't deserve all of those horrible words or the slap."

"I did deserve it. But, how about a truce?" he held his hand out.

I smiled, grabbing it and pulling him towards me. We hugged each other tightly, and the memories came flooding back. This was my brother, such a familiar feeling, a loving feeling.

"Right, go on, fuck off with your boyfriend." he joked.

"I love you Finn. Don't worry, we'll see if Bonnie has any friends for you."

"Fuck off. But I love you too." he chuckled.

Bonnie wrapped his arm around my shoulders as we walked away. Neither of us could stop smiling. And now that Finn and I were building our relationship back to the way it was, everything felt like it was moving in the right direction.

"I repeat my question from earlier, mine or yours?" Bonnie needily said.

"Is that all you can think about right now?" I dramatically gasped."Yours, we haven't been there in ages."

"Well you better start walking faster, love."

"Come on, I'll race ya'."

"What's the prize?"

"Winner gets the other person to do whatever they want to them."

"I'll give you a head start. I'm going to win either way."

"Alright, but just know I have about ten things in my mind."

[kyber-crystal]

forever & always || s.r

summary: you’ve long since given up on hoping for a better future, but steve’s there to remind you that there’s still something left living for. and you grow to realize that maybe, just maybe, that something was him.

words: ~1.3k (sorry this is so short)

warnings: angsty in the beginning, mild descriptions of blood, fluff in the end, cliche tropes, bad writing. post IW–pre endgame AU, some dialogue is from endgame; i don’t own any part of it. credits go to marvel.

a/n: yeesh this is a complete dumpster fire. i have no idea where this idea came from but i just sat down and decided to start writing, so here we are. buckle up and i hope you enjoy this (unedited) shitshow :3 friendly reminder that requests are open!

Amidst the aftermath of the Snap’s destruction, things were a complete mess. You found it hard to do so much as get up in the morning when the world had stopped moving forward—what was the point of waiting up for something that wouldn’t go on?

There were many nights in which you slid into bed and hoped you’d never wake up again and yet, you did wake up—in the early hours of the morning. And despite it all, you kept going. You kept going, you pushed yourself to make it through the day because you knew that nobody else would do it for you. 

You hardly ever got any quality sleep. If you were lucky, you’d get a solid two or three uninterrupted hours, and five was unheard of. You were falling—and Steve, being as observant as he was, noticed. 

He noticed how you’d lost the light to your face. You no longer glowed like you used to when you were fully engaged in a conversation. Your smile, that is, if you smiled at all, never reached your eyes. It was rather easy for him to differentiate a fake one from a real one—and he could tell you were struggling to maintain the façade. 

Steve felt guilty. Here you were, doing everything you could to stay afloat and pouring your heart and soul into keeping everyone else on the team happy and healthy, but you never found time to take care of yourself. He wanted to help. Seeing the woman he’d known for as long as he could remember slowly fall apart broke him—and the fact that there was little to nothing he could do about it only made it worse.

It was another one of those late nights for you. Natasha had tried to talk you out of helping her, but the pure exhaustion in her eyes was evident—so you’d convinced her to go to bed (you knew she hadn’t done this in days) and took over.

Rhodey had a solemn look on his face as you pulled up his hologram. “Hey, Y/N...where’s Nat? Are you guys alright?”

"Yeah...how about you? Where are you right now?"

"Mexico. The Federales found a room full of bodies," he answered with his arms crossed over his chest, "it looks like a bunch of cartel guys...never even had the chance to get their guns off."

"It's probably a rival gang, then," you shrugged.

"Except it isn't. It's definitely Barton. What he's done here, what he's been doing for the past few years...the scene that he left...I gotta tell you, there's a part of me that doesn't even wanna find him."

You were silent for a moment as you comprehended his words. "Will you find out where he's going next, check in when you hear something?” You looked at him hopefully. “Please? We can’t just...we can’t just give up now.”

"Alright, I'll let you know," he said with a sigh, before disappearing from the room.

Your gut instinct was to call Steve, but before you could find your hand on your phone, you pulled it back. He was probably busy at the moment—you didn’t want to burden him any further when he already had enough on his mind.

Placing your hands on the edges of the desk, you pushed yourself out of your seat and got up. You grabbed a glass out of the pantry and decided to pour yourself a cup of cold water to clear your head, ignoring the sharp hunger pangs in your stomach that told you it really had been forever since you’d last had a proper meal that wasn’t three cups of coffee and half a banana. And that had been four days ago. 

You were often too busy drowning in your own thoughts to focus on anything else.

Out of nowhere you’re hit with a splitting migraine that has you struggling to stay standing upright and suddenly the world is spinning and everything is blurring together you can’t breathe. As if it was going in slow motion, the glass fell out of your hand and shattered into a million tiny crystalline fragments upon hitting the floor, and you sank down with it. 

You felt the sharp edges digging into the palms of your hands and the bottoms of your feet and it stung, but compared to what you’d been through in the past, it was nothing. The metallic smell of blood overwhelmed your senses. The tears kept coming and coming and your head was hurting, your body ached immensely—everything hurt. 

Steve quietly entered the compound and immediately stopped in his tracks when he reached the kitchen.

“...Y/N?”

You tried opening your mouth to speak, but no words came out—instead, a hoarse cry escaped your lips—and the sound sent daggers straight through his heart. There’s crimson stains on your shirt and on the kitchen floor; you’re covered in blood and sweat and tears and there’s glass everywhere. It’s a complete mess, but he doesn’t care. 

Disregarding the complete kitchen disaster around him, he carefully kneels down next to you and pulls you forward, and you collapse into his arms.

He doesn’t say anything. Doesn’t say a thing as you let it all out. Your tears begin leaving dark spots on his shirt but he remains quiet. He’s dead silent. Steve brings a hand to the back of your head and gently pushes it towards his chest, and you continue sobbing into his shoulder as he smooths your hair back and uses his other arm to pull you closer. 

You clutch his shirt with every ounce of energy you have left. You cry and cry and cry until you feel like your throat is going to tear apart from the sheer force of it and your seemingly never-ending river of tears has finally run dry. You’re not sure exactly how long you’re like this for—sitting in the middle of the cold kitchen floor, wrapped up in his arms and clinging to him as if he was your sole remaining lifeline—but you’re there for a while. And he’s patient, whispering soothing words of encouragement and sweet nothings into your ear to calm you down.

“It’s okay, I’m here. I’m not going anywhere.”

...

You’re quietly sitting on the edge of the bathtub as Steve is kneeling in front of you and picking the glass out of your skin. He winces when he thinks he’s being too rough, but you don’t even do so much as flinch. 

He dips a cotton boll into the small bowl of alcohol on the counter, starting to gently dab on the cuts scattered across your knuckles and cheeks. Steve wants to ask why you were in such a state when he found you, but he knows better than to pry. He knows that before anything else, he’s supposed to be there for you—to listen.

“I miss them,” you mumbled. 

“I know. I miss them too.”

You glanced up at him with glassy eyes, and his heart shatters all over again. “Do you think we could get them back?"

“Of course. There’s always hope.”

“...You really think so?”

“Ever since you came into my life, I never stopped. Hoping, that is.” Steve cleared his throat. “If we can find a reason to keep going, then I don’t see why we can’t achieve anything we want.”

You cracked a small smile at his words, and he reached up and gingerly wiped away the remnants of your tears. When his hand finds its place against your cheek, you place your own hand over it—and let it stay.

You were ready to go. You were planning to leave for good, but seeing his piercing yet gentle blue eyes and breathtaking smile pushed you to stay. If you couldn’t keep going for yourself, you had to at least do it for him. 

And so you did.

...

general tags: @arkofblake @anakinswhore @captainchrisstan @naomiiiiiiiiiii04 @patzammit @rynhaswritersblock @capcapcapsicle @musicalkeys @buckybarnesthehotshot @zaddychris @optimistic-dinosaur-nacho @sylvie-writes @sis-it-dont-add-up @poesflygirl 

permanent tags: @sandwitch-god @renaissancecherub @voguesir​ @fl0ating​ @cicicantblog​ 

steve/chris tags: @speechlessxx​ @angrybirdcr​ @marvelfanatic16​ @epiphanybucky​ @smokeandnailz​

[readerinsertfanfiction]

Hiii! 💫💖 First of all, I want to tell you that your stories are awesome, I read few and now I was looking for somebody to make requests to and I found out your asks are open, so yay! 💫💖

Soo, can I please have Ieyasu, Ranmaru, Kennyo, Shingen, Kenshin, Mitsuhide, Mitsunari and Yuki (or just choose from them, I don't know how many is your limit 🥺💖) with chubby MC who is really insecure about it and somebody (maybe some maid or something?) tells her that she's fat and that she's not good enough for the warlords? 👉👈🥺💫💖 Thank chuu :3💖💫 (I would prefer drabble, but do whatever you're comfortable with! 💖💫)

~ Leiia 💖💫

Heya Leiia! Welcome to my blog, I hope you enjoy your time here and come back in the future for more! I also hope you have a happy New Years Eve / Sylvester day and a healthy and good start to the New Year! 🥰🥰🥰

Fandom: Ikemen Sengoku

Characters: Ieyasu Tokugawa, Ranmaru Mori, Kennyo, Shingen Takeda, Kenshin Uesugi, Mitsuhide Akechi, Mitsunari Ishida & Yukimura Sanada

The world was unforgiving and the tongue cruel. You had known that even in the modern era where disgusted stares frequently followed you and harsh whispers were meant to be heard. 1582 was no different but you tried to be optimistic, believing that as long as you worked hard no one would dare to criticise you. How wrong you were.

The space was narrow as it was already and you felt a little clumsy while trying to move around alone. Add in another person and you had no idea what to do with your body, other than let yourself be poked and jabbed as the two of you tried to work around each other.

“Could stand to lose a little weight around that waist,” the maid had mildly commented in the end. Not really making clear to whom it was targeted, but seeing how slender she was compared to you, you were certain that it was aimed at you. A hot flash passed behind your eyes as you tried not to cry right here and then. Biting your lower lip you were quick to fake a smile before excusing yourself, rushing yourself away from the scene into privacy. It was there that he had found you...

Ieyasu

“Hey you,” the blond had gruffed, a little annoyed that he had to walk all over the castle to find you, only to find you idle in some dark corner. That annoyance was quickly dispersed when he saw your despondent form, the irritation of earlier replaced with worry as he squatted down next to you.

“What has you sulking this time?” he questions, but you give no response as you throw your arms over your knees, crawling even more into yourself both physically and mentally. A sight that the warlord couldn’t stand as he tugs at your arm.

“What happened?” Ieyasu’s stern voice sounds and you finally relent, allowing your arms to peel away from you as you face the man and repeat what had happened. By the end of the story his expression is placid, but you can see a fire burning behind his eyes as he brushes your hair.

“Silly, you are fine as you are. Who cares about the words of a dumb maid?” he scoffs, but you can hear the resentment he carries for the maid in question. It soon fades away as he softens at you, fingers trailing over your cheek.

“I think you look fine,” Ieyasu says and you know that coming from this man it meant ‘perfect’.

Ranmaru

“There you are!” Ranmaru’s boundless energy came to a skidding halt as he stopped next to you, expression faltering for a moment when he noted how upset you looked. Immediately the male sat down next to you as he leans over to peer at your face, his bubbly expression for once replaced with one of contemplation.

“What’s wrong?” he questions and you shift your face away, trying to morph away the sadness still lingering on your face as you suck in a breath. It was too late, however. The page had seen you upset and was not about to leave you alone until he got an answer. Thus you told him what the maid had said, trailing off a bit in the end as you wring your hands together.

“I know it is silly,” you breathe, but the male stops you as he places a hand over yours.

“Not at all!” Ranmaru exclaims, “but that maid sure is dumb for saying so. That is super shallow, but shows how she is all the more not worth your time!”

His eyes brighten up as he speaks, just as his voice pitches and you look up, facing a page from whom you could swear that he was emitting sparkles.

“Besides, I think you are the prettiest in the whoooooole world!” came his simple encouragement.

Kennyo

“You’re upset,” Kennyo spoke rather matter-of-factly when he found you in your little corner, but there was a tenderness in his voice as he knelt down next to you, a hand running over your back as he tried to comfort you in the way he knew. “Do you wish to speak of it?” he questions when he feels you shift and lean against him. You didn’t need much more encouragement to let it all out, explaining what the maid had said as the monk held you.

“We often hurt each other unconsciously, most often because there is something ugly within ourselves,” the man told you, a grim expression on his face as they contorted into something contemplative. “That doesn’t make what she said any more alright, but know that she spoke in spite, for you are more loved and more beautiful in heart than she ever shall be.”

The words are spoken hushed and in careful deliberation as he pulls you closer against you, stroking the back of your head with a gentle touch.

Shingen

With an information network like Shingen’s, and all around skill in conversation there was little that escapes Shingen’s attention, including the vile words directed at you from the maid.

“My goddess?” he approached you with those words, though you felt far from a goddess at the moment. Not that the warlord minded, he was determined to make you feel like one as he sat down behind you, only needing one arm to pull you into his chest.

“Hmm, who is this beauty in my arms?” he whispers, as he reaches for your face and lifts up your chin to look at him, “whose eyes sparkle so like the brightest stars in the sky?” he continues as fingers run across your cheek, “what fair divinity have I caught into my arms, treasured in my heart?”

His words earned a flush from you as you squirmed in Shingen’s hold, but the male was not about to let you go as he continued his ministrations.  

“How I treasure the one sitting in my lap, the dearest one that I wish to keep warm.”

Kenshin

“Why are you hiding?” Kenshin’s smile had entered first before his words and his words before his realisation of your mood. He had come to seek you out, wanting to see your smile, but now that he saw you so desolate worry gripped his heart.

“Did something happen?” he frowns, hand already on his sword as he was ready to cut down whoever it was that put you in this state. You shake your head as you motion for him to sit down with you, your body turning towards him as you eye the man cautiously.

“You are so beautiful, so fair that I feel you might be unreal and I’m…”

You trail off and Kenshin’s expression falls further as he realises what it is that had upset you. Without hesitation he pulls you in, a pout on his lips as he forces you to look up and then he smiles at you. A little sad, but also in tenderness and in love as you can see yourself reflected in his mismatched eyes and how they behold you.

“Don’t say such silly things when I’m afraid that you’re the one whisked away by the wind.” It was rare for Kenshin to speak so poetically, but you knew that they were sincere and only meant for you. Blinking back at him Kenshin pulls you closer, arm wrapped firmly around your waist as he holds you.

”when I’m the one waking up in the morning fearing that you were just a dream.”

Mitsuhide

There was little that escaped Mitsuhide’s attention and that he made double-sure about all who dared to insult you. After that you had left the fox stepped out of the shadows, quick to corner that little maid in as he gave her an apt warning. He knew that you didn’t like him to step in for you, but Mitsuhide gladly abused his reputation if that meant shutting up unnecessary tongues wagging.

“Little mouse?” he smiled once he was done, finding you exactly where he had expected to find you sulking. How heartachingly adorable you were right then, but he hated to see you upset for any reason other than to his teases and as such the man was quick to go for your sides, tickling the spots you were most sensitive at in several ways of understanding.

“My dearest little one,” Mitsuhide speaks as you wriggle against him, giggles hiccuping up from you as you succumb to his teasing fingers. “That smile suits you much better,” he shares, as he has you lay your head on his lap.

“Don’t believe jealous tongues, or I will have to remind you again how beautiful you are to me,” the elusive warlord tells you, though the two of you know that even without the criticism Mitsuhide was more than willing to remind you every day how out-of-the-world you are to him.

Mitsunari

“Ah, here you are! I have been looking all over for you!” Sunny as ever Mitsunari had found you sulking in a corner, his smile quickly fading when he realised that there was something wrong with you. Mitsunari didn’t often grace emotions with his attention, but with you he wanted to make sure that there was only ever a smile on your face.

You blinked away the last of your tears as you shook your head, not wanting to saddle the man up with your insecurities. They were your own after all. But Mitsunari saw it differently as he knelt down next to you, his smile soft as he holds your hands.

“Don’t hide from me, that makes me sad,” he speaks to you, putting his feelings into words directly as he eyes you carefully, “will you tell me what took away that lovely smile of yours?” Natural as ever Mitsunari managed to be both innocent as well as seductive as he coaxed the truth out of you, his expression only falling for a split second before he pulled you in.

“They’re just jealous of your beautiful smile and character,” he informs you and when he says it you believe it.

Yukimura

“Geez, I have been looking all over for you!” Yukimura sounded annoyed when he finally found you, hand already on your shoulder as he was trying to catch your attention, “were you napping--”

He didn’t finish his sentence as he saw your face, eyes widening and mouth falling open as he immediately sat himself down next to you.

“Hey, what’s wrong? Did something happen?” he questions you, a light panic in his voice as he wonders if it was something inconsiderate he had said, or whether you were falling ill. Yukimura wasn’t the best at comforting people, he knew that, but he wanted to be there for you at least. Whatever it was that had upset you.

You let go of a deep sigh as you eye the male, your heart wanting to pour out, but your mind telling you that the young warlord wouldn’t understand. Whatever the case, when Yukimura’s hand brushed against your forehead to check for your temperature you turned away, spilling the words you had carefully kept inside as you told the story.

“Geez,” was his first response, a pout on his lips as he looks away in contemplation. “It is too bad that it was a maid, now I can’t punch her for you,” he says and you scoff at the thought of Yukimura hitting anyone for your sake.

“But,” he says and a hand reaches out to you as he ruffles your hair, a handsome smile spreading across his features as he pinches your cheek, “it is silly of you to worry. Not when you are so…”

And the blush that spread across Yukimura’s features when he realised what he was about to say is all you really need to feel better, a laugh rumbling from your chest as you lightly punch him on the arm.

“That’s more like it,” he tells you, glad to see you doing better.

[gaemkyuu]

The Recovery

Warnings: Recovery from a traumatic event, mood swings, vomiting A/N: Writing this part was therapeutic for me. In a way, this piece describes moments of what my life looked like for two years after an extremely traumatic event. I felt that maybe sharing my story this way, it could provide comfort to those who have been there or who are still there. It might even provide perspective to someone who knows a friend or family member going through something similar. Disclaimer: This is a FICITONAL writing piece on Charlie Gillespie. In no way do I claim or declare that Charlie’s portrayal is accurate to real life. I do however, own Teagan Valencia :)

Masterlist *now taking requests ;)

The Teagan Valencia Series: The Meeting  / The Fight / The Proposal / The Present / The Recovery / The Future

*The song used in this piece was ‘Porcelain’ by Marianas Trench

The Recovery

Charlie was suddenly awakened by a sudden movement from the bed. Rolling over, he noticed the fading warmth, the sudden brightness of the ensuite light and the sounds of vomiting. He abruptly rose from the bed, threw on a hoodie and dashed over to help the poor girl emptying the contents of her stomach into the porcelain bowl. Charlie held her hair back and soothed her back, patting it at times, as she continued to vomit. As soon as she stopped and sat back slightly on her knees, Charlie put the lid down and flushed, opening the water bottle the girl had grabbed on her dash to the toilet.

“Same dream?” she nodded, rinsing her mouth with the water and spitting it back into the toilet. He glanced at the clock that sat above their bedroom window. 2am. Even though it was dark outside, the Vancouver city line still looked so beautiful.

You thought by now You'd have it figured out

She dry heaved and Charlie instinctively pulled her hair back again. When nothing came out, he flushed the toilet again and rubbed her back. Charlie noticed that the tears in her eyes were no longer due to the vomiting, but rather the girl was starting to cry. He sat against the open door and pulled her into his lap, as she curled into a ball.

You can't erase the way it pulls When seasons change

It had been three months since the incident.  Three months of on-and-off personal leave. Three months of meetings with lawyers and court appearances. Three months of trauma therapy. Three months of being afraid to be alone. Three months of feeling insecure about herself. Three months of waking up from a dream that reminded her of the events that day.

“I’m right here. No one is going to hurt you” Charlie kissed her head softly and held onto her tightly, his own tears threatening to spill. He couldn’t bear to see you like this. It didn’t matter how many therapy sessions he accompanied her to, or how many times they’ve talked about what they could do to help her heal. Seeing her like this broke his heart.

He held her until her cries softened and eventually stopped. Escorting her to the bed, he tucked her in tightly, snuggling up to her. He kissed her forehead, examining her tired face. 

“I’m sorry for waking you up, Char” she whispered, inching closer to him. She hid her face in the crook of his neck and took a deep-breath. Charlie smiled softly to himself, pulling her close, knowing that she was practicing a strategy she had learned from therapy.

It hurts sometimes To find where you begin

“Teags, there is nothing to be sorry for” he kissed the top of her head, wrapping his arms around her and rubbing her back. Her 5”1 frame fit his 5”8 perfectly like two puzzle pieces. The two lay there in silence for a moment or two, but Charlie knew he had to “address the situation” like they learned at her therapy sessions. “This is all a part of the recovery process Teags. Although it sucks, you can’t be mad at the way your body and mind are responding to the trauma”

“Thanks for the reminder Dr. Cheung” He grimaced at her sarcasm and cynicism. 

But you are perfect porcelain

He pulled away from her to look at her eye to eye. Charlie thought that even when she was like this she was still the most amazing and beautiful woman he had ever met. She avoided eye contact, fiddling with the blanket. He kissed her nose, offering her a gentle smile. “Do you want to start or do you want me to start?” 

She sighed heavily, but Charlie could feel that she was slightly annoyed with his persistence. It didn’t help that she moved to lie on her back to face away from him. She knew that Charlie was not going to let them sleep until they had this conversation, even though she knew she probably wouldn’t even go back to sleep. “Char, you have to get up early... Can’t this wait until the morning?”

“Okay, I will start” Charlie could feel her roll her eyes, but he persisted. “This is the third time this week that you’ve woken up due to a bad dream. After every dream, you’ve avoided talking about anything, insisting that we go back to sleep, even though you lay here pretending to sleep. I feel like there is a lot on your mind that you are harbouring. If you don’t find an outlet, it won’t help you heal.” She knew he was only trying to help, but she couldn’t help but feel angry with his attempts to help her...

Or was it that she was angry with herself?

The slow and simple melody Of tears you cannot keep from me It's alright if you don't know what you need

“Why are we still talking about this Charlie?!” it came out harsher than she intended to, a complete mood swing from her previous calm demeanour.

She felt Charlie flinch at her outburst.  She wiped away the hot tears leaving her eyes. She immediately regretted her actions.  She lost control.

Teagan hated that she was crying again. She felt like a stupid child who couldn’t control their emotions and simply move on. She knew that Charlie wasn’t the source of her anger and she knew that he didn’t deserve to be lashed at. Annoyed with herself, she sat up against their headboard and scratched her head furiously. Teagan angrily wiped her tears away, knowing what she wanted to say but not knowing how to say it. “Can’t we just drop it? I’m fine, everything’s fine!”

Charlie sighed deeply. He knew that Teagan didn’t mean to take out her emotions on him, but this hadn’t been the first time. Sometimes it made Charlie angry or upset, but he always brought himself back to the point that she didn’t mean it. What could Charlie expect of her? What happened to her would’ve messed anyone up! Heck, the therapy sessions weren’t only for Teagan... Her therapist would check up on him and give him the space to talk about how Teagan had been around him when they weren’t in the office. Sitting up to sit beside her, he wrapped an arm around her lower back and leaned his head on her shoulder. Something he always did when he needed comfort from her.

I'm right here when You need someone to see It's not speak or forever hold your peace

No words were exchanged for a while. Charlie’s head rested on her shoulder and she eventually rested her head on his, silent tears falling from her eyes, wetting his hair. He held her hand with his free one and rubbed soft circles on the back of her palm. ‘Sometimes you just have to wait until the other person is ready to talk’ these familiar words from Dr. Cheung rang through his mind as they sat there in the darkness, Charlie waiting for Teagan to start talking. 

Teagan was always the strong type. She believed that everyone deserves a chance and that the world wasn’t as crappy as people thought it was. Charlie fell in love with her optimism and excitement for life. Teagan was the type of girl who hated hiking, but she would do it so she could see the beautiful view from the top of the mountain. She always believed in trying everything before deciding how she felt about it and Charlie loved this about her. Her compassion and empathy for others was uncommon, and everyone would always describe her this way. Every night before bed, Teagan would journal about what she did great that day, what she wanted to improve tomorrow and how she planned to do that. Charlie admired how intentional she was about each day and how committed she was to making the world a better place.

Her determination and conviction was so intense that Teagan was very hard on herself. It also didn’t help that her parents weren’t always the most optimistic. Charlie was sure they didn’t mean to hurt their daughter with their words, but he couldn’t help but notice how her excitement was sometimes snuffed by a comment her parents made. She would always tell him that they just thought differently and that one day they would understand, but he knew that it did bother her. He suspected that her determination was fueled by this upbringing, always being held to a higher standard because she was the oldest. 

After being with her for three years, he knew that she didn’t always ask for help. He knew that she never wanted to bother anyone or admit to herself that she couldn’t do it alone. In their relationship, she had begun to start opening up more and reaching out to others for support, but after the incident, that changed. At first, Teagan was her usual self, just jumpy, but soon started to close off to others, returning to old habits. She went back to the mentality that whatever it was, if she just focused hard on it and worked hard at it, she could achieve it... But this time was different...

Teagan was focusing hard and working hard on healing, but she didn’t feel like it was working.

It's alright to take time And find where you've been

“Why am I not getting better Char?” the question came out in the quietest whisper. Charlie bit his tongue, knowing that if he stayed quiet a little longer, she would continue talking. “I’m doing everything that Dr. Cheung is saying. I’m doing everything that those self-help books and podcasts are saying. I’m doing everything that I can, but no matter what I do, it won’t go away” as she said this her voice rose but fell to a quiet whimper. “I’m trying so hard to get better but it doesn’t feel like anything is working!” Teagan felt herself tearing up again, but quickly blinked them away. 

“Why are you rushing the process of healing?” Charlie’s question was simple but it made Teagan face some harsh truths that she wasn’t wanting to face. Teagan approached her trauma as if it were any other goal she had set for herself. Identify the goal and work to complete the goal. Charlie’s question was making her face the fact that this whole ordeal was out of her control and that it was going to take time. It also made her face the truth as to why she was trying to be systematic about the goal.

Charlie had been there every step of the way. She knew that he begged Kenny to work his filming schedule around her therapy sessions. She saw the way he yawned in the mornings after she had a rough night. There was only so much that movie magic could cover up and she felt guilty that her trauma was affecting him. He never had a single complaint and never got mad at her or took his frustrations out on her. The instagram comments didn’t help either as the fans noticed the weariness showing on Charlie’s normally bright face. She felt guilty for being a burden on him and she was desperately trying to get better so she wouldn’t be one.

“Because I don’t want you to leave me.”

You are perfect porcelain

Charlie snapped his head in her direction and in the moonlight, she could see his eyes wide as saucers. His mouth slightly agape and pure shock encompassed his body. He sat there in disbelief but quickly came to the realization as to what had been heavily weighing on Teagan’s chest.

“Do you feel guilty?” She bowed her head, more tears falling, but she shyly nodded her head. Charlie clicked his tongue in disappointment, not at Teagan but himself, for not realizing sooner what she had been struggling with. He moved to straddle her on his knees, his legs on either side of hers, and held her face in his hands, his own face inches away from hers. “Teagan Jillian Valencia. I will never leave you, do you understand me? I am doing this because I love you. I don’t care what I have to do but I will do whatever I can to support you.”

He kissed her forehead, nose and lips, searching her eyes for some sort of acknowledgement. He saw her hurt and her guilt for the first time, and knew that she didn’t quite believe what he was telling her. “Teags, I. Love. You. I would give up my entire career to move to the mountains and live the rest of my days there with you and our future kids. This? All of this? As much as I hate that this whole thing has been destroying you, if I had to do it again I would. Call me a simp, but I will do anything for you. Je t’aime Teagan. Il n’y a personne dans le monde pour moi, excepté you.”

When your heart releases You won't fall to pieces You'll let those old diseases lie And your breath comes crashing in

Teagan smiled for the first time that night at Charlie’s ‘simp’ comment, but she saw the sincerity in his eyes. It was the same look he held when they first met, when they fought and when he asked her to marry him. Charlie spoke through his eyes and all Teagan could see was love. 

“Tu comprends? Je ne te laisserai jamais. Ever” Teagan nodded and wrapped her arms around his neck, holding him tightly. He naturally reciprocated the hug and held her tightly, even when her grip loosened. He held both sides of her face and gave her the most passionate kiss he could muster, to which Teagan reciprocated. “I promise” he kissed her ring finger and engagement ring. 

With everything going on, they couldn’t even discuss wedding plans. They were both so focused on moving past this hurdle, but Teagan realized that instead of trying to move past it, she just had to face it bit by bit, little by little. She had to admit to herself that no matter how much she wished the whole thing away, she couldn’t. She had to accept that it happened and that she can’t simply work on it like a regular goal. It was something that was going to be a part of her, where one day she would find peace and strength from it.

“Now, why don’t we cuddle and try to fall asleep?” she smiled sheepishly at him and nodded, “there’s the smile I love so much.” The both of them settled back into their bed, but this time Teagan rested her head on Charlie’s chest as he massaged her scalp, lulling her to sleep. Charlie could see that Teagan was slightly resisting the sleep befalling her, so he moved to gently massage the spot in between her eyebrows. It was an odd place to massage, but Teagan’s dad once shared that when she was little and had nightmares, this action would calm her down and put her back to bed. It worked without fail and Charlie kissed her head before settling himself into the pillow. Maybe tomorrow he would ask Savannah to come over with wedding catalogues and help Teagan start thinking about the wedding. As his tired eyes closed, he found comfort in knowing that tonight was a big step. Teagan opened up for the first time in a long time and he hoped that this was not a one time thing, but a beginning.

Like perfect porcelain

[fandom-imagines-stories]

Saving Face

Tom Branson x Reader

Words: 2580

Part One of Two

Summary: Married for nearly a year, the reader and her husband return to her home and family for a dinner at her sister’s invitation. Tom faces judgment and becomes a point of ridicule. Everything halts when the reader falls deathly ill. 

Notes: This one is definitely hard to write, but you know me I love putting my favorite boys through hell. I love Sybil and Tom, but I really want to write some imagines for him, so in this case, Sybil is just the supportive sister. I hope you enjoy! I also decided to make him a journalist in this since that’s what he does when he goes back to Ireland. (P.S. This was getting insanely long, so I split it into two parts!)

-

You could tell he was nervous by the way he wrung his hands as you walked. The house had never been more intimidating than it was at this moment. You took one of your husband’s hands in yours and gave him a small reassuring smile. 

“She said we would be welcome.” You reminded him, though you also feared that your sister had been too optimistic in her letter. 

“Maybe she’s forgotten how it was when we left.” He argued, looking up at the grand estate that he had once been a servant to. 

“They don’t hate us, Tom.” He gave you a look. 

“They don’t hate you.” You sighed, pausing halfway up the path to the door. It had been almost a year now that you had been at Downton. Almost a year without seeing your family. But it had also been almost a year since you’d married the love of your life. 

“I’m sure there will be other guests at dinner tonight, as well as tomorrow,” You started slowly. “And while my family has hopefully adjusted, others will not have.” You knew how some of the other women in society could be. They made Mary look like the goddess of hospitality. Surely, Sybil wouldn’t have invited them, but that didn’t mean that your grandmother wouldn’t. 

“I have somewhat prepared myself for this.” He laughed humorously. Your fingers gently grazed his cheek as you made sure his hair was in place. The first face to greet you was at least a friendly one. Sybil burst out the door before you even had the chance to ring. 

“It’s so good of you to come!” She exclaimed, wrapping you in a tight hug. This of course was much warmer than a traditional English greeting, but Sybil was anything but traditional. She turned to Tom, her smile welcoming and kind. “I know this must be strange for you, but it means so much to me that you’re here.” He gave her a small nod. 

“We wouldn’t miss it, m’lady.” He tried to expel any expression of nervousness from his face, but his smile was still an uneasy one. At least he had an ally in Sybil. You took his arm and Sybil led you into the house. You thought you would feel some great sense of nostalgia. The feeling of being home again after so long. But stepping into the grand entrance only made you realize that anywhere would be home so long as you were by his side. 

Servants scurried around you, some slowing down to gawk. Tom avoided their gaze. You hadn’t even thought how strange it would be for him to be served by the people that he once worked with. Mr. Carson was quick to shoo them all away, but their stares lingered in Tom’s thoughts. 

“They are expecting you in the drawing room, Lady Y/N.” Mr. Carson kept his tone neutral, though you could sense his disapproval. He was one of the most offended by your match with Tom, not that he’d ever told you. You knew it was his love of the family that drove his opposition, but you found yourself still wishing for his approval. Sybil paused at the door. 

“Are you ready?” Her concern was sincere which made Tom feel a little better. 

“I suppose it’s too late to turn around and run.” He whispered in your ear, making you laugh. 

“I’m afraid so.” With a nod of permission from you, Sybil instructed the footman to open the door. The room was lively with conversation until the moment you stepped inside. Your heart pounded, feeling every person’s eyes staring at you. You were right. It wasn’t just your family. Your grandmother must have invited the Winstons- a family of women your age she’d been trying to persuade you and Sybil to befriend for years. You’d both always found them haughty and arrogant. They definitely weren’t the first family you’d have chosen to introduce Tom to, but you refused to fear them. 

Tom lingered in the doorway, regretting ever getting on that train. It wasn’t that he was afraid for his own pride, but for yours. To see you ashamed of him would surely be his undoing. You turned back to him with a look of more adoration than he felt he deserved. When you held out your hand, he didn’t hesitate to take it, fully stepping into the room. 

Your mother was the first to approach you, taking your hands in hers with a smile. 

“How was the journey, dear?” She asked. There was an awkwardness to her tone, but not a hostile one. 

“It was lovely.” You left out the part about the train car being a bit crowded. Not riding first class was something you still had to get used to. There was a child who freely ran around the car and forgot to cover his mouth when he coughed. A small annoyance amongst a thousand other happy memories. Falling asleep on Tom’s shoulder or feeling his finger trace the lines on your palm while you stared out the window watching the world go by. You felt his hand tighten its grip on yours when your mother turned to him. 

“I trust your occupation in Ireland has been going well?” 

“The editor I’ve been writing for seems to think I have potential.” He knew it must sound so ridiculous to someone of her stature. You put a hand on his arm and gave him a smile brighter than the sun. 

“Tom is being modest, mama.” You beamed. “Mr. Byrne tells me he doesn’t know what he’d do without him. He loves Tom’s ideals and thoughts for a new future.” You heard a giggle from across the room. Abigail Winston tried to conceal her smirk by bringing her fingers to her lips. She was by far the vilest of the girls and you expected she was thinking of plenty of ways to humiliate you and your husband. 

You couldn’t help but notice the way your father avoided your gaze. While you didn’t elope, the blessing he gave Tom was a reluctant one. You had given him very little choice and you knew that it was only by your mother’s insistence that he allow you to marry. Thankfully, Matthew was quick to strike a conversation with Tom. Matthew seemed to be another friend Tom could rely upon. After all, before learning of his inheritance, Matthew was a simple lawyer. 

Carson announced that dinner was ready and everyone filed into the dining room. Tom sat to your right and Mary took the seat to your left. Of every person there, perhaps you feared her the most. Your relationship was complicated, to say the least, and when you left to marry Tom, you knew that she disapproved. When you were a young girl, you idolized your eldest sister and losing her respect had hurt you greatly. 

“I hope you’re ready to face the wolves.” She said, quietly enough that only you would hear. You glanced at her, allowing your nervousness to show. 

“I just wish I could make him feel like he’s not below us.” He barely touched his food, taking only the smallest bites in fear of looking improper. 

“That may be difficult considering he used to work for us.” You gave her a look. 

“I don’t think we are above anyone who has worked or currently works for us, Mary.” She chuckled at your defensive tone. 

“I know that’s what you believe, dear, but I’m afraid I’m not the one you have to convince.” She nodded her head towards Abigail and her sister Margaret, both gossiping and giggling like school children. 

“Tell us, Sybil has it been a strange adjustment?” Margaret began. “You kept so busy as a nurse during the war and now things have settled down.” 

“I do my part where I can.” She put on a gratuitous smile and you envied her ability to maintain so hospitable. “I don’t think I could ever go back to what it was like before the war. Too many things have changed.” 

“Indeed.” Margaret agreed, her gaze sliding over to you. “So many things have changed.” You shifted uncomfortably in your seat, suddenly feeling very warm. You motioned over to Mr. Carson. 

“Could you possibly move the candelabra?” You asked quietly. He gave you a strange look. 

“Are you feeling alright, my lady?” He looked genuinely worried, which caught Tom’s attention. 

“What’s wrong?” Your husband asked. You laughed as though they were both being silly. 

“I’m afraid my dress is a little heavy for the weather and I’m getting a little warm, that’s all.” You assured them. Mr. Carson removed the burning candles, but you felt little relief. You felt sweat bead across your forehead, but dabbing it with a handkerchief would draw too much attention. 

“Lady Y/N,” Abigail stared you down with a cold gaze, “Or is it Mrs. Branson now? I never asked which you preferred.” Her words were civilized, but her tone was accusatory and cruel. Your lips stretched into a tight smile. 

“You may call me whatever you like.” She leaned over to her sister but made sure you could still hear. 

“Perhaps she wishes to be called ‘Lassie’.” They shared a laugh before she continued. “I meant to ask you where you get your shoes?” 

“My what?” It was such an odd question considering she had beyond the means to find suitable footwear. 

“I couldn’t help but notice how your shoes are in perfect condition.” By the smug smile on her face, you knew what direction she was taking this. “I’m afraid mine wear out terribly quickly with all of the walking I do to get to and from town. Wouldn’t you agree, Margaret.” Her sister nodded with an amused glint in her eye. 

“Abigail, I’m sure you’re boring the gentlemen with such talk.” Lord Winston scolded, but she had an agenda she fully intended to keep. 

“Then again, I suppose not all of us have chauffeurs that are so eager to please.” 

You pushed away from the table so suddenly that it made you dizzy. The plates rattled from the force of your motion and the entire room went deadly silent. The men in the room were too baffled by the unexpected motion that they seemed to forget to stand with you. Abigail’s face twisted with wicked triumph .

“Oh dear, I do hope I haven’t offended you.” 

“If you’ll excuse me, I think I need to step out for some fresh air.” You muttered, rushing out of the room. Tom and Sybil were quick to follow while the rest of the party sat in shocked silence. 

“I’m sorry if this seems rude, but I’m quite frankly surprised that she brought him here.” Margaret noted, snickering at her sister’s comment. 

“Must you both be so wretched?” Mary blurted and joined her sister to chase you. 

“My love, slow down. Please.” Tom urged you, but you were out the door without a second thought. 

“We’re going home.” You fervently tried to brush the tears as they fell. Your blood felt as if it were boiling and even the brisk night air failed to cool you. 

“Y/N wait!” Sybil pleaded, Mary catching up behind her. “We’ll ask them to leave. I didn’t wish them to be here anyway, but please don’t go like this.” 

“I’ll gladly throw Abigail out myself.” Mary added. You were almost surprised to see her taking your side but you were too emotional to care. 

“I can’t do this.” You stopped and turned to them, the tears on your cheeks glistening in the moonlight. Tom could feel his heart crack seeing you like this. You saw the hurt in his expression and knew he thought this was his fault. But he couldn’t be more wrong. “I cannot play this game anymore. I refuse to dance around my feelings for the sake of keeping face. I thought I’d escaped all of the fake smiles and forced politeness, but life with Tom has made me forget how horrible it all is.” 

“Honestly, Y/N, what did you expect to happen?” Mary exasperated. 

“Mary.” Sybil gasped. 

“Things have changed, Y/N.” Mary stepped towards you. “You made a choice and you knew the consequences. You chose a life of love, but it is also an uneven path to follow. I’ve always respected your courage, don’t disappoint me now by running away.” You softened. She respected you? Tom placed a hand on your cheek, his eyes grounding you enough to stop your hysterics. 

“My darling, if you want to go now, we’ll go.” He gave you a reassuring smile. “But I can face them if you can.” The heat spreading through your body was becoming unbearable and your head grew dizzier every second. Your breathing became short and labored.

“Tom, I-” Before you could finish, your legs gave out beneath you. 

Tom rushed to catch you and Sybil leapt into action. With one arm holding you upright, his other hand gently patted your cheek, trying to rouse you. 

“Y/N? Love, wake up.” He looked up at Sybil. “What’s happened?” Sybil touched her hand to your forehead and quickly drew away. 

“She’s burning up, we have to get her inside.” He scooped you up in his arms and the two practically sprinted inside. 

Mary was frozen for a moment as they ran past her back into the house. Y/N had looked rather ill at dinner, but surely she was just overwhelmed. Mary’s thoughts went to Lavinia and an icy fear ran through her. 

“Somebody help!” Tom shouted upon getting inside. Servants gathered around with a chorus of gasps and Sybil began giving them orders. 

“We should take her upstairs,” She instructed. “Thomas, fetch me a bowl of cold water and a cloth. Mr. Carson, try and fetch Dr. Clarkson.” 

“Yes, my lady.” Mr. Carson’s eyes followed Tom and the worry in his expression was clear. 

“What’s happening?” Matthew appeared from the dining room, the rest of the party soon filing out behind him. 

“Y/N’s fainted.” Mary said solemnly, taking her fiance’s hand. “Sybil says she has a fever.” Everyone watched as Tom carried you up the stairs, Cora making her way to the front of the group. 

“My girl.” She exclaimed, following Sybil and Tom. Abigail turned to her sister. 

“And here I thought Irish women were supposed to have thick skins.” Mary would have lunged at them had Matthew not stood in her way. 

“Just ignore them darling.” He sighed. 

Upstairs was a flurry of movement from servants bringing Sybil supplies. They’d instructed Tom to the room you were meant to stay in and Sybil helped him remove the heavy dress from your frame. Male servants hesitated as they came in. Even catching a glimpse of you in your undergarments was a scandal. Tom seemed to notice their surprised stares and shifted so that he was shielding you from their view. 

“Don’t just stand there.” Sybil exclaimed. “Help Thomas get the ice water and someone find out if Mr. Carson has contacted Dr. Clarkson.” 

“Come on, love.” Tom brought your fingers up to his lips. “Open your eyes for me.” He couldn’t breathe. It was like the rest of the world was a complete blur. People bustled around as shapes around him. The only clear thing was you. The panicked tears came without warning. “Please, love. Please wake up.” 

The first thing you heard was his voice.