#[ *stares wistfully out the window* when will my husband return from the war ] | Explore Tumblr posts and blogs

ahopelessromantic · 4 years ago

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Children of Sun and Darkness (M)

Part two of A Child of Sun and Darkness

Pairing: The Darkling x Sun Summoner! female reader

Word count: 8,7k (oh boy)

Warnings: once again, spoiler of the Darkling’s name, SMUT, Aleksander being a SIMP, fluff, so much fluff, villainous behavior

A/N: I really, really got carried away with this one. Especially since I didn’t even intend to have any smut in here. But alas, the apology letters to Ben Barnes and Leigh Bardugo are sent once more and I wish you all a happy reading experience. I really do must warn you again of the Darkling as a father though, I don’t think you’re ready.

A gorgeous ray of sunshine was tickling your barely awake self. There were things to do, certainly, but your bed felt far too heavenly to be left already. The air had recently begun to smell like the promise of summer, and it paired so nicely with the flowers Aleksander always brought to your bedside table. Aleksander, you thought sleepily and slowly opened your eyes. You would have loved to curl into his lean body for a few more minutes before getting up, but it seemed like he had already so cruelly abandoned you. You were about to pout like a little baby when a soft morning wind carried the sound of laughter through your window. Aleksander must have opened it before leaving your shared chambers. Wanting to know the source of these joyous sounds, you slipped into your morning robe and stepped in front of the big window. After your marriage to the infamous Darkling, the two of you had moved your chambers to be closer to the Little Palace’s beautiful gardens. From where you stood now, your position on the second floor gave you the perfect view over them.

“There she is.” Your husband beamed with his lovely deep voice. He was looking up to you with nothing but adoration in his eyes, and you couldn’t help but smile yourself. Your daughter, barely even four, shrieked happily at your sight and sent another ray of sunshine your way. “Good morning, my love!” You called out to her. She ran up to her father, who picked her up so she could see you better. Your chest warmed at the sight of the two people you loved most in the world, the serenity in their expressions. “Good morning Mama!” She giggled back. You blew her a kiss, which she caught enthusiastically. “You should have awoken me!” You chided your husband. He smiled. “How could I, when you were sleeping so peacefully? Besides, we wanted to try if Ilona could get her sun rays all the way through to our bed. Did she manage it?” The proudest smile grew across your lips. “She did. You did amazing, honey. So amazing, that when I get down there, I’m gonna have to smooch you all over!” “NOOO!” She screamed and skipped away to the pond to look at her beloved fish. “Are you coming down for breakfast? I already had the servants set out a table.” You sighed happily and just looked at your husband for a moment. “You really do think of everything, don’t you?” The grin he sent you in response caused your knees to weaken. “Who would I be if I didn’t.” To hide your blush, you scrunched your nose and disappeared from the window to get dressed for the day. Only a short while later you had finally made it to the gardens, clad in the same colour as your husband: deep black. Upon seeing you, your daughter began to happily run towards you. Suddenly then she seemed to remember your threat of extra smooches and turned around, but it was too late. You caught up with her and gathered her into your arms, tickling and kissing her all over. She laughed loudly, only half trying to escape. “Good morning, little sunshine.” You finally properly greeted her once you were done, pressing a long kiss to the top of her head. She turned around in your arms and buried her face in your neck. “Did I do good with the sunray, mama?” You smiled and pulled her even closer. “You did so well, Ilona. I love you.” She leaned away to look at you, the brightest smile on her adorable little face. “I love you!” She responded and kissed your cheek. Saints, she was everything good and soft in the world come to life. “Can I go feed the fishies?” She asked enthusiastically. You grinned at her, forever enchanted by the little human that was so you and so Aleksander. “Of course you can. Go ask the servants, they’ll give you some food for them.” The Darkling, who had watched the interaction between you and your daughter, stepped forward with a happy smile. You were about to ask what specifically he was smiling about when he placed his lips on yours in a passionate kiss. There was barely anyone around, but the kiss’ immodesty still caused your cheeks to flush. “My sun.” He whispered, only for you to hear. “I swear you look lovelier by the day.” You sighed, still phased by the kiss, and slid your arms around his waist. “And I swear you get more charming by the day. Is it a thing of darkness, your cheek? I think I see some of it in Ilona.” He chuckled and pressed a kiss to your temple. “I think that’s all you actually.” He nodded to where she was knelt on the edge of the pond, apparently talking to its inhabitants. “I only know one other being that can be so kind and yet so fierce.” For a moment, his words rendered you speechless, but then you pinched the fabric of his kefta. “Alright, Mr Darkling, now you’re overdoing it. Where is this breakfast you’ve promised me? I’m starving.”

Giggling like the two lovestruck Grisha you had been years ago, you set off to the little table laden with delicious breakfast foods. It gave you a perfect view of your daughter, close enough to see her, yet far away enough to allow her the space even she as a little person was owed. You and your little family spent most mornings like this: Breaking the fast together, you and your husband watching your daughter play, talking court politics while eating. There were unrests in Ravka again, unrests the old king didn’t seem capable of dealing with. “He’s a fool, and I wished I could see him gone.” You hummed at your husband’s words, staring at your tea in deep thought. If he had only been just a fool, you thought. He wouldn’t be any danger to anyone, then, but his empty-brained attempts at displays of dominance were costing the second army precious lives every time. But he was still the king, and the two of you were still just the second army’s general and his wife. “Careful with the treason talk so early in the morning, my love. I don’t think it’s all that becoming with my sweet roll.” He smiled and took your hand from across the table. You squeezed it and sent him a meaningful glance. “Besides, you never know who might be listening. You know I couldn’t bear it if the Lantsov family were to imprison you.” Aleksander sighed, now, and wistfully looked across the Little Palace’s grounds. Some Grisha were training in the far distance, Inferni, by the looks of it. His gaze was pensive, a look you well knew by now- he was planning something. But apparently, it was too early to let you in on his schemes yet. He just pressed a kiss to your knuckles and looked at you in earnest. “I promise you, my sun. One day, we won’t have to bow to anyone. Our world will only consist of our family and Grisha, and it will be safe. I promise.” An unexpectedly reverent feeling spread across the breakfast table. You nodded solemnly. “One day.” You whispered back. That seemed to please him because his face returned to the kind smiles he usually wore around you, and he pressed another kiss to the back of your hand. “I love you.” He mouthed at you, and you mouthed it right back. Then, as it tended to happen with a toddler child, the two of you were interrupted by Ilona climbing into her father’s lap. “Papa, can I have a dagger?” Both you and Aleksander snorted out a laugh at the determination in your daughter’s voice. She really was a force of nature, your little one- quite literally. Not fully in control of her powers yet, she seemed eternally surrounded half by darkness, half by light. No one had thought it possible, but so far it seemed she had inherited both yours and your beloved’s powers. Ballads were being sung about her in taverns ever since word of her powers had left the Palace walls and witch hunters trying to get to her ever since that, too. Now, Aleksander Morozova had always been concerned with the safety of all Grisha. But more and more often these days you found him pacing in his war room at night, or watching your daughter with far more than fatherly sorrow. It was an all-consuming fear and sorrow for her safety- one you shared. There was nothing you wouldn’t do to know her safe. Once you had been driven by ambition, then by love for your husband. But now such a fierce protectiveness spurred you on that caused you to think yourself capable of far greater evils than your husband had ever committed.

“Do you think the Second Army would follow us? If we were to split from the king?” Aleksander’s eyebrows shot up in surprise, his deep brown eyes finding yours. The two of you had been dealing with some late-night paperwork, General’s duties. As the sun summoner and, in addition, the Darkling’s wife, you almost held as much power and responsibility as him these days. Your husband put down his pen and pensively sank back into his chair. “I don’t know.” He uttered finally. “I wish they would, of course. But some Grisha are as loyal to Ravka as Otkazat'sya. Some of them do wish to serve their country. And some of them do love their king.” He grimaced at that, and you had to bite back a laugh. “Ravka’s eagle is double-headed for a reason, you know.” He continued, and you turned serious once more. The sentiment of Ravka’s duality was a nice one- but one that was destined to fail, in your opinion. The Grisha already lived so separated from the country’s regular citizens that it was almost ridiculous to even count them as part of them. Most Otkazat'sya seemed to condemn Grisha for their powers, and most Grisha seemed to look down on the Otkazat'sya. They both had their good reasons, you figured. But how much contempt, how much annoyance or even hatred separated non-Grisha from Drüskelle? You inwardly shuddered at the thought of Fjerda’s Army, with their repeating rifles and their ruthlessness. Aleksander’s hand on your shoulder caused you to return to reality. “What’s on your mind, my sun?” He asked, his voice ever so soft. Sometimes, with how much love he showed you every day, you forgot about how evil he could be, how hated he was by so many. “I-“ You began, then sighed. “I’m thinking about what you said the other day, at breakfast. About not having to bow to anyone. I’ve been thinking about it a lot, actually. What would happen if we were to take one of the eagle’s heads? Leave the people and their Lantsovs to themselves and found our own sovereign nation of Grisha power. It would be of the tsar family’s interest to stay in our good natures, we could trade their foods and goods for our protection. But on our own terms. And we would be safe, in a city of our own, protected by Fabrikator walls and your Darkness. Ilona would be safe.” Your husband had that look on his face again. That look of deep contemplation. “A safe place for all Grisha. Most importantly, Ilona. That’s all I’ve ever wanted in life.” He said quietly. You stroked his cheek, ran a hand through his hair. “I know.” You hummed. For a moment, you spotted a glimpse of the man he had been when your daughter had been born. He had been so eager to do everything right. So happy, yet so frightened and worried at the same time. His first words upon seeing the little bundle that was your newborn daughter had been “She’s so small”, accompanied by tearful eyes. She had been small indeed, so very little. During the first weeks after her birth, whenever you hadn’t been holding her, he had been. There hadn’t been a nanny, a wet nurse even. The both of you had been far too afraid to let your precious daughter out of your sight. Still were. She was your everything. You felt guilty for steering your nightly conversation down such a dark path, so you took his hand and lovingly squeezed it. “I trust you, Aleksander. I trust you to do what’s right for us as Grisha, and for us as a family. And believe me when I say I will be by your side for anything you ever decide on doing.” The smallest of smiles began to tug at his lips. “Come on now.” You said softly and breathed a kiss against his jaw. “It’s late, and it’s my matrimonial duty to distract my betrothed from any worries that might plague him.” He was fully smiling now, a familiar playful glint in his eyes. He tilted his head and looked at you with one raised eyebrow. “How would you think to go about doing that?” You returned his playful smile and got up to settle yourself right into his lap. Something dark flashed across his eyes, something that told you you wouldn’t yet sleep for many more hours. “What about this?” You whispered and experimentally ground down on him. A devious smile was on your lips. For a moment, he let you have the upper hand. Leaned his head back, breathed deeply. Sometimes, you were allowed to see him like this. To have him like this. Feeling bashful, you leaned forward to place a myriad of kisses against his neck. You could almost hear his heartbeat speeding up, his breathing growing heavier. His hands wandered to your waist, then to your hips. He used his strength to press you down on him, and it was then that you were done for. Your moment had ended, it was his turn now. Aleksander looked up at you with dark eyes, his pupils were blown wide and barely noticeable in the low lighting. “I wish you could see yourself the way I see you sometimes.” His voice had dropped at least an octave deeper. “My perfect, perfect wife. My perfect sun, with a body so powerful. A body strong enough to bear life.” Feeling very vulnerable all of a sudden, you had to make an effort to bite back the tears that had risen to your eyes. Your husband truly always knew what exactly to say- even to a mother who sometimes found herself quite insecure in her new curves. “I love you.” You marvelled, kissing him softly. He smiled into the kiss and deepened it until you were both gasping for air. “Shall we retreat for the night, my sun?” You were about to respond when he lifted you up and placed you on the table the two of you had been sitting at. “Or do you want to taint this place forevermore? Curse it, so I think of being inside of you whenever I hold council here?” You innocently looked up at him through your lashes. Then, you smirked. That seemed to have been answer enough, because he was on you again in seconds, devouring every inch of skin he came across. “Do you remember our first night?” You gasped out between moans. Aleksander stopped in his tracks for a moment to look at you, lifted your chin with his fingers. He looked unravelled. Like he was merely dangling by a thread anymore. “You mean when I almost had you in the hallway, of all places?” You grinned and felt your eyes light up. “Exactly.” You whispered and leaned forward to capture his lips again. He groaned into the kiss. “Saints.” He panted. He seldomly addressed saints, if ever. It sent a wave of cocky satisfaction through you. “All this time with you, and you still find ways to catch me off guard.” Chuckling, you pulled him impossibly closer by his collar, crossing your legs behind his waist and grinding up against him. “I think it’s included in those matrimonial duties of mine.” “You’re going to have to- ah.” He took a deep breath. “-Send me a list of those.” You wanted to respond something, anything, but you didn’t get the chance to. Not while your kefta was being unclasped, not while his hands bunched up your skirts around your hips. “Do you want to go slower?” He asked, breathing heavily, his forehead leaned against yours. You closed your eyes for a moment, then smiled. You felt surrounded by your husband, by his scent, his presence, his arms. Most of all, you felt safe. A kind of safety only Aleksander had ever been able to provide for you. After a moment, you shook your head. “No.” You answered, nipping at his neck. “No.” You said again, sliding his kefta off his shoulders. “I want you. I need you. Now.” Suddenly, time seemed to speed up. You helped the Darkling unbuckle his pants, shrugged off your own coat, allowed him to rip most of your blouse open. The thoughts of witch hunters and civil unrests were still heavy on your mind, and you wanted him hard and fast, so he could take away all of your worries. Normally you weren’t as impatient as this. The two of you loved drawing things out in the bedroom, all teasing kisses and devilish grins. But today, things were different. Today you wanted to forget. Today you wanted to be overpowered by him. You didn’t even have the proper time to admire his length, for as soon as it had been exposed, it was already teasing along your folds. You sighed out shakily. “How badly do you want it?” Aleksander asked, one hand playing with your breast. “So badly, Aleksander.” He sighed at that, too. His name from your words would maybe never lose its effect. “If you were taken from me, I would kill. I would destroy entire cities to have you again. To have this again.” Your words almost felt as intimate as your wedding vows. They sent you both forward again, lips colliding in a clash of teeth. His tongue touched yours and sent a bolt of electricity down to your nether regions. “Nothing. Do you hear me? Nothing will ever take me from you.” He vowed back. With that, he entered you, and you both moaned out loudly. “Fuck!” He almost yelled. “How are you still so tight?” It was clearly a rhetorical question he didn’t want an answer for, for his hands were clasped around your neck. You allowed your head to drop back in pleasure and voluntarily clenched around him. “All for you.” You rasped out through his grip. He started fucking into you at that, the both of you losing your ability to form proper sentences once the so familiar fire started to spread between you. Somewhere, the edge of a book was pricking into your side, but it only spurred you on further. You always felt like the queen of the world like this- desired, full of pleasure, the most powerful man in the kingdom losing himself in you. You thought of how he would never be able to look at this table normally again, how he would twitch in that adorable way of his whenever people weren’t paying attention to him. Saints, you loved him. You loved him. Your heart felt warm and full, but so did you. At some point he hoisted you even further onto the table, his pace relentless now. But you didn’t care, you needed more, more, more. “Aleksander!” You gasped out when he brushed up against that place inside of you. “I love you.” You panted, tightening your legs around him. He looked at you like there was nothing else ever worth being looked at. Like you were a painting he could neither understand nor get enough of. With shaky hands he moved a few wayward strands of hair out of your face, then he cupped it in his hands tightly. “I love you.” He answered, stressing each word with a thrust of his hips. “Oh fucking saints, I love you. I’m so close.” “Let go.” You encouraged him seductively, tugging at the hair in the nape of his neck. “Give it to me, Aleksander.” His pace seemed to grow impossibly faster until it grew erratic. “My sun. My love, my goddess, I’m going to-“ With a loud moan, he came, his pulsating member spilling his seed into you. You helped him ride out his high, pulled him closer, clenched and unclenched in his rhythm. He shuddered at that; head buried in your neck. It was your moment once again. He was all yours to have. “I love you.” The two of you whispered at almost the same time and broke out into laughter. But the laughter caused you to clench again, and Aleksander winced from the hypersensitivity. “You’re just too tight, my love.” He almost teased and moved to remove himself from you. He wasn’t really in a state to tease again, yet. You pouted. “But I don’t want you to leave me. I always feel so empty afterwards.” He breathed a kiss to your cheek that could have well been a concealed laugh. Sometimes the two of you would stay connected like that for ages, neither of you willing to end this incredibly pleasurable state of warmth and satiation. But while that was easy to do on a bed, it wasn’t so much on a desk. “Besides.” You continued. “We’re going to make a mess.” Your husband looked at you, his lower lip caught between his teeth. “I like the mess.”, he said decidedly. “Leave it to the servants to be cleaned up. That’s what you wanted, isn’t it? For someone to know what cursed, unholy things their Saint does for her evil husband?” You barely even blushed at his words. Saints, he had ruined you- in the best way possible. “Now come on, my sun.” He uttered. “If I remember correctly, you still need taking care of.” You shuddered at the thought of what was to come. His fingers inside of you, his lips on your most sensitive spot. Oh, how good you had it. Smiling and holding his hand, you followed your husband back to your chambers. He stayed true to his promise there- two times. Afterwards, you sleepily held him in your arms, your fingers drawing abstract, invisible designs onto the skin of his back. Through the connection the two of you shared you could feel his peacefulness as if it was your own, a sense of pride filling you. You were the one in whose presence he could relax, let his guards down- no one else. You pressed a gentle kiss to his hair, a silent ‘I love you’. “My love?” He murmured and pressed an equally soft kiss to your shoulder. “Hm?” You hummed in response and watched your husband straighten up so he was able to look you in the eyes. He sighed, visibly struggling to find the right words. “I want more children, as many you’d be willing to have. Brothers and sisters for Ilona, so she will never be alone. More time for us to experience holding a newborn babe again. But I fear for our daughter so much, every day. I fear for any future children of ours, even. And I think we’ve lived in fear for long enough. I’ve lived in fear long enough. I thought if we just waited for the king to die, waited for him to live out his pathetic mortal life, we could seize control one day. But I’ve been patient for centuries, and I’m tired of it. I think the time for action has come.” Aleksander’s words caused you to sit up, too, your heartbeat uncontrollably speeding up. “Will you fight with me, my love?” You pensively moved a strand of his hair away from his gorgeous features, then lifted your chin. “Always.” You breathed. The smallest of smiles lit up his face. Your husband leaned up to kiss you, then pulled you into his embrace. “We’ll change the world. For us. For our family.” You squeezed his arm in response. You truly would.

The next few months were spent meticulously planning the beheading of the ravkan eagle. Your mornings were spent in softness, laughing with your daughter, cuddling with her in bed, and then that softness was exchanged for the coldness of daily council meetings. Spies were seeking out the intelligence of the opinions of Grisha on a potential Grisha state, letters were being sent, fighting styles being trained. The king and queen would pose the smallest problems for your cause- they would either cooperate with the second army’s leaving or leave their lives. Angry mobs were your bigger worry- there was a smart way to go about the splitting off of the kingdom, and you were eager to take it, with as few casualties as possible. Then there was the question of your new country’s location. You didn’t need lands the size of Ravka, but you still needed space for houses, training facilities, farmlands. Surprisingly many Grisha were open to leading a simple life of caring for crops and animals, having long tired of the so-called ‘war effort’. Your council meetings grew with each week, more and more Grisha eager to take part in the founding of a home of their own. Fresh faces kept on turning up every week- a Suli Fabrikator here, a Shu Healer there. The once so spacious halls of the Little Palace were beginning to feel cosy, filled with the hope of new alliances forming. It was getting harder by the day to keep your efforts hidden from the king, and the time to strike seemed to be nearing. Ilona seemed to be feeling it, too. Her new favourite pastime was to make friends with as many of the new Grisha as possible. You and Aleksander had both felt apprehensive about it at first, but once you deemed her safe you realized how much power of her own she truly held. She was a symbol. A symbol of you and your husband’s strength, of a new generation of Grisha. A generation that would grow up in safety, without being trained to be used in fights their entire lives. The people in the Little Palace loved her, they had taken to calling her the ‘Grisha princess’. It made you partly proud, partly uncomfortable. You didn’t want her to be an instrument in your fight for freedom, just another weapon to be used, but you couldn’t hide her away, either. She was still small, and young, but she still deserved a life in the light. Late at night, when he was feeling particularly safe and vulnerable, Aleksander sometimes told you stories from his childhood, his youth. How his mother had eternally urged him to stay hidden in the shadows. It wasn’t a way to live, he had once said. And he was right. Ilona deserved her fishpond, her Grisha friends, her chance to openly use her powers. One day, you and your husband already deep into planning your coup, you watched her play with a young Squaller boy. They were both laughing loudly, their happiness more than contagious. You found yourself smiling, heart and body warmed by the afternoon sun. This was what you were fighting for. What you were always going to fight for. Freedom. Only a few weeks later, the time had come. The king was holding a ball, and it was the perfect opportunity for a show of strength. Countless honorary representatives had been invited, the perfect audience for what you were planning to do. You, your husband, and your legion were hoping for a peaceful encounter. The second army was going to show in its full strength, crowd into the ballroom and declare its conditions. You all hoped the sense of unity you had all started to feel would make itself noticeable, pose a threat. The council meetings with your fellow Grisha had long ceased to feel like generals talking to their subordinates. You were equals in your cause, and as the objectively most powerful Grisha, you and your husband were treated with the respect of such. Almost everyone doubtlessly acknowledged you as the heads of your operation, the rulers of Little Palace. The king, of course, was going to be appalled, yes enraged even over your actions. He would spew harmless threats at first, feeling ashamed and belittled for having missed out on developments of such a grand scale right under his eyes. But his power was by far no match for yours. It had come just as you had hoped it would. The king of Ravka had begrudgingly signed your declaration of independence after hours of discussions, angry tantrums and finally quiet pleads. The Grisha would have their own eagle from now on- no shared heads. You would claim lands west of the fold, protected from each side by mountains, the true sea and the world of shadows your husband had created so long ago. The people already living there would have the choice of continuing to stay there, or move somewhere else for a compensation. Grisha from all over the world would be welcome in this sanctuary- you had space and power enough to keep them all safe. Once the coup was over and done with, you sought out a moment alone with your husband. It was a few days after, and both of you had been stuck in nonstop meetings and conversations with fellow Grisha. There was the name of your nation to be decided on, the flag, the layout of your new city. You had been so busy even, that your victory still hadn’t fully registered with you. “Are you alright?” You nervously asked Aleksander in his private office. It was nicely cool and dark there, a welcome change from the Little Palace’s crowded halls. His eyes met yours at that, a smile reflected in them. He looked the healthiest you had ever seen him, a new vigour in the way he moved. Sometimes you forgot that, while you shared the same cause, it already had been his before that for centuries. His years of pain and solitude had finally paid off. “I am not just alright, my love. I’m overcome with joy. Don’t you see it? We’ve changed the world.” You bit your lip, suddenly feeling overcome with emotion and fairly vulnerable. Carefully stepping into his embrace, you took in his scent, sought out his ever so calming touch. Just like he had done in the very early days of your relationship, he wrapped the two of you in comforting darkness. “I’m a bit scared.” You admitted quietly, choked up with tears. “It feels surreal that we’ve won.” Aleksander sighed and pulled you closer to his body. He knew what you meant- he had felt it too. This fear of everything being ripped away as soon as you’d held it in your grasp. “I know.” He murmured and pressed a kiss to your temple. “But it is done. Our declaration has been signed by the king, his ministers. The first army will allow us to leave- or be met with our collected strength. You’ve seen the halls outside, the gardens. I don’t think as many Grisha as this have ever been in one place, in all of history.” You looked up at his face, the beauty of his finely chiselled cheekbones. He was pure strength, safety. As if to remind you of your own power, you filled the room with a golden glow. You were the legendary shadow and sun summoner, the two strongest Grisha who had ever lived- nothing was going to come into your way. You got onto your tiptoes and hugged him tightly, buried your head in his neck. He reached his arms around your waist, and his so familiar certainty flooded your bloodstream. “We’ll have everything.” You murmured, half incredulously. Your husband chuckled at that and playfully squeezed you tight. “I promised that, didn’t I? I think it’s part of my matrimonial duties.” You both laughed, pulling away to look into each other’s eyes. Aleksander caressed the side of your face, nothing but devotion in his gaze. “I know that this new reality is frightening. We have more to lose than ever. But we can carry this fear together. Turn it into something beautiful, something to last for centuries. We’re not alone as long as we have each other.” At that, you leaned up to kiss him lovingly. You both sighed against the other’s lips. It had been ages since the two of you had last had the time to lose yourselves in each other’s embraces. “We’ll have all the time in the world for this, soon.” You realized suddenly, happily. The darkling smiled. “We will. We will my love.”

A few months later, your husband stormed into your chambers. He exuded a wild sort of happiness, his eyes restless. First, he pressed a kiss to Ilona's head, then he picked her up and twirled her around. She shrieked with laughter, and you lowered the book you had been reading while your daughter had played into your lap. Aleksander’s eyes met yours, untamed joy written in his features. “It is finished.” He spoked, and as if struck by lightning, you got up from your seat. Your book clattered to the floor, and the loud sound sent your heart racing. “Is it really?” You quietly asked, eyes wide and incredulous. He nodded reverently, hugging Ilona close to his chest. “The head of the Durasts received the word just this morning. The Fabrikators have finished our city, based on the drawings we’ve both seen. It’s marvellous, according to their reports.” Your hand wandered to your heart, as if to will it to go slower. You breathed heavily, taking a moment to let the realization sink in. You would be safe, on your own terms. Not the king’s. Both you and your husband had been overseeing the construction of your new city from within the Little Palace’s walls, not wanting to leave until it seemed completely safe. For months, assorted groups of Grisha soldiers, healers and most importantly, Durasts, had been crossing the fold to make your shared dream of a Grisha nation come true. The Darkling stepped closer to you, put his arms around both you and your daughter. A giggle escaped your lips. “It’s done.” You breathed; happy tears in your eyes. Aleksander returned your look with equal happiness and leaned forward to press a kiss between your eyes. Ilona giggled, sensing the happiness of her parents. “We can start the moving nothing shorter than this week if you want to. They’ll need your powers for the fold.” Sending smaller groups through the fold was alright. But for the massive move you were planning, you would accompany the myriad of coaches and carts, to keep the Grisha and their belongings safe. “The two of you will be alright here, for a while?” You poked Ilona’s side, and both her and your husband laughed. “We’ll have loads of fun. We’ll have a parade to say goodbye to all the fish, and we’ll tour the Little Palace to pick out all the paintings Ilona wants to take with her.” You grinned happily. They’d truly be alright.

The move was exhausting but fulfilling. You crossed the fold several times a week, accompanied by carts stacked with furniture, livestock and necessary equipment. Once an Alkemi cart almost eradicated a group of Inferni, a sign of how nervous and eager everyone was to escape into a country of their own. Your favourite part was listening in on the other Grisha’s conversations while guiding them through the fold. There was a group of young tidemakers gushing about the prospect of seeing the true sea for the first time and playing with it, two Alkemi discussing how to maximize carrot harvests with the right mixture of sun and Grisha fertilizer. You hadn’t been to the new capital yet, only seen its buildings gleaming in the far-off distance. You wanted it to be a surprise, to set foot in it for the first time with your husband and daughter.

“Enjoying the view one last time?” You asked gently and leaned against the doorframe. Aleksander turned to look at you in surprise, looking a bit lost in the empty room. The time to leave had come, and he had been quietly saying his goodbyes to the Little Palace for the past week. The two of you stood in what had once been his office, now nothing but an empty room with a pretty view. Your husband sighed, something in his expression calling out to you. You walked up to him and allowed him to put his arms around you. “Where’s Ilona?” He asked softly. You smiled. “With the other children. I think they’re playing one last epic round of hide and seek.” That answer seemed to calm him, free his thoughts for other topics. The two of you stared out of the window in silence for a while. Eventually, he sighed. His chin leaned on your shoulder, and you could feel his apprehensiveness. “I’ve wanted to leave this godforsaken place for decades. To never have to see the Grand Palace again. But despite all of that leaving is…” He trailed off, his gaze wandering into the distance. “It’s harder than I expected.” You placed your hands on his arms around you, squeezed them gently. “You’ve built this place. It’s only understandable you find it difficult to leave behind.” He scoffed, and you knew that sound. He made it whenever he was feeling something he hadn’t expected to feel. “This was the first place I’ve ever felt safe in. The first at least relatively safe place for Grisha there’s ever been.” You gulped down a ball of tears. “You should be proud of that.” You whispered. At that, he finally smiled. “You’re right. This is a first draft- a product of the past. We’re moving into the future now.” Grasping one of his hands, you held it up to your lips to press a kiss against it. “Are there any things you still want to take with you? Any last thing you still want to do?” He turned you around in his embrace and pressed your back against the wall right next to the window. A playful glint was in his eyes now, and you were overwhelmed by the sheer happiness he exuded. “I could think of a few things.” He placed a naughty kiss against the side of your neck, and you giggled. “You’re insatiable.” He straightened back up to look at you again and took an impossible step closer to you. “For you? Always.” He breathed, and the time for laughter was over.

The move to your new home took about three days. You wanted to take your time, show Ilona the parts of Ravka she had never seen. But of all things, the Shadow Fold seemed to have awoken her interest the most. While the other children and many adults, too, huddled close for protection, she skipped ahead. Her head was continuously tilted upwards in an attempt to take everything in. “I think she’s sensing your power. It feels familiar to her.” You smiled, taking your husband’s arm. His gaze was fixed to your daughter’s small figure, and his eyes glistened suspiciously. It was only then it dawned upon you- the Fold had been his biggest mistake, his very own monster- an abomination. Seeing his own daughter treat it with so much innocent fascination must have stirred hurt parts of his soul you couldn’t even begin to imagine. Your smile died down into a face of quiet adoration. You took a step back and left Aleksander to have this moment by himself. After centuries, he probably had been starving for one like it. After a few minutes, he turned around, his gaze seeking yours. There weren’t many Grisha around, most of them had moved already, so he allowed himself to keep his guards a bit lower than he usually did in the presence of other people. You sent him an encouraging smile and caught up with him to take his hand. “Do you want to catch up with her? We should probably get back to the coach if we want to make it out of the fold by noon.” He returned your smile, then took off towards your daughter in quick strides. “I’m coming to get you, Ilona!” She put up quite the fight, but in the end, she curled into her father’s arms, still giggling. She had always loved playing catch with him, even when her legs had barely carried her for more than a few steps. You didn’t miss the way Aleksander first glanced at the Fold around him, kept at bay by your powers, and then buried his face in Ilona’s hair. He was cherishing every moment of this. The next day, Nostova’s walls finally appeared on the horizon. The name you had ended up deciding on for your new country meant home, and you already felt a fierce kind of pride for it. “It’s just like the drawings.” You marvelled while finally riding through the gates. The bright Fabrikator made walls gleamed in the afternoon walls, and behind every corner, something new took your breath away. Eventually, you finally arrived at the most important building- your new home. It slightly resembled the Little Palace but looked… homier. There was enough space for administrative offices, meeting rooms, ballrooms for celebrations and a great hall to receive visitors. Emissaries from Ravka or Grisha with petitions, things of that sort. Walking through it, an eternal look of astonishment seemed to take hold of your face. It took you everything not to openly gape at the beautiful furnishings, the symbol of your nation etched into the entrance hall’s stone. An eagle, half shrouded by shadows, half dipped in light. It looked proud, grim, protective. And not like the Ravkan eagle at all. But what you liked most of it all were your new private chambers. There was space enough for at least four more toddlers, a library of your favourite books, a sitting room with a painting of you and your husband. It felt regal and comfortable at the same time. There was a private little staircase from your and Ilona’s bedrooms to the garden, something Aleksander had specifically requested. The Fabrikators had outdone themselves, and you only hoped they would feel the same pride in their work as you felt looking at it. The compensation they had received for their work would allow them more than comfortable lives in Nostova, lives they would hopefully enjoy. Your heart almost bursting with happiness, you watched Ilona and your husband take your new living quarters by storm, your little princess loudly counting down everything she approved of. With an inward sigh, you realized how spoiled she was going to be here. But whenever you talked to Aleksander about that he never seemed to quite understand the problem. ‘Let her be spoiled’, he only always said. Sometimes you forgot just how wrapped around Ilona’s little fingers he was. An odd thought struck you at the sight of your little family. This, Nostova, would be the first time in so long Grisha families would be able to stay together. Children would have their mothers and fathers again, would be allowed to train their powers with them by their side. “You look a little choked up, my love.” Your husband said teasingly, coming to a halt in front of you. His breathing was heavy from all the running around with your girl, and his hair was a mess. The darkling you had first met at the Fold years ago would claw his eyes out at the sight. You grinned at him, completely at ease with your husband seeing your emotions. “I’m just beginning to realize what all of this means. It’s incredible.” He pressed a kiss to your cheek, at which Ilona demanded he return to her so they could explore the rest of your rooms. You and your husband shared a laugh, taking a moment to revel in your happiness. “I have a surprise for you later.” He whispered into your ear, and then he was gone, back to playing with your daughter. You had to refrain from fanning your face. Your cheeks felt very hot all of a sudden.

“Where are we going?” You whisper shouted, tightly holding onto your husband’s hand. This definitely wasn’t the kind of surprise you had expected. Aleksander chuckled and just kept dragging you in the direction of Nostova Castle’s main wing. After many halls and double doors, he finally came to a halt in front of a set of gilded doors. He positioned himself between you and them, an impish smile on his face. “I know I told you you’ve already seen most of the castle, but I wanted to keep this as a surprise for you. Show it to you when it’s just us two.” You lifted your eyebrows, your excitement starting to match with his. “What is it?” He bit his lips, seemingly conflicted. “Close your eyes.” He finally commanded. You breathed out a laugh in surprise but complied. “For someone who’s centuries-old, you really do behave childishly sometimes.” Your husband chuckled. “Now, dearest wife. Don’t stab where it hurts. Besides, you have centuries ahead of you yourself.” At that, you smiled. You did. Centuries by your husband’s side, centuries to watch your children grow up in peace and find love themselves. Your husband had already led you into the room behind the golden doors. Your steps echoed loudly, a sign of its probable grandeur. The two of you stopped and you felt Aleksander step behind you. “Would you give us a little light, my sun?” Smiling, eyes still closed, you called upon enough light to dip your surroundings in a light glow. “This…” He started, then sighed. “This is the most important room in the castle. We’ll receive guests here, announce decisions… open your eyes. This is our throne room.” Your eyes snapped open, and you couldn’t help the gasp that escaped your lips. Just in front of you, on top of a few stairs, two breath-taking chairs overlooked the room. To your feet, a stunning mosaic of a sun in eclipse was let into the floor. One of the chairs was made of part gold, part glass, the glass reflecting your light beautifully and sending it through the room in tiny specks. The other one was made of the darkest wood, silver stars worked into the back- and armrests. But that wasn’t even the most beautiful aspect of them. The chairs stood a few inches apart, but where they were closest to each other they bled into the colour of the other. The golden one’s side was dipped in black, the black one’s side in gold. They were undeniably yours. Still rendered speechless, you climbed the stairs and sat down in the golden chair. It was surprisingly comfortable, and from it, you could oversee the throne room in its entirety. It was beautiful and regal enough to put Ravka’s Palace’s rooms to shame. The Darkling looked at you nervously, awaiting a reaction. You smiled at him and beckoned him to join you. “It’s beautiful.” You said happily, a smile growing across your husband’s face in return. He sat down in his place next to you, and for a moment the two of you just sat there and took in the view. This was your status now. Sovereigns of your very own nation, with thrones to call your own. You got up from your seat, enjoying the Darkling’s eyes on you. You stepped in front of him and slowly curtsied, conjuring your best demure expression. “Moi soverennyi.” You breathed out, looking at him from beneath your lashes. He chuckled, but you didn’t miss the hunger flashing in his eyes. You had decided to stick with his old title and have people address you as such, too. Nostova felt like it had outgrown the concept of Kings and Queens, but you and your husband both still undeniably held the power over the state. Feeling bold in the dark of the night, you sank into your husband’s lap. He was quick to pull you close, put his arms around you. “How improper you are, my lady.” You stifled a laugh. “I had to see if yours is comfortable, too, didn’t I?” He chuckled and littered kisses against your jaw, your cheek, your neck. “I can’t even tell you with how much joy it fills me to see you so happy here. Ilona, too.” Still smiling, you played with fingers. “I am happy.” You confirmed. “Happy we finally have made our place in the world. Made it ours. At the perfect timing, too.” You felt Aleksander start at that, and he turned you in his lap so he could look at your face. “What do you mean?” He looked confused, and a bit scared. Deciding he could stay like that for a moment, you just took him in, smoothed his hair back. He was beautiful. Powerful, dangerous, yours. “Don’t you feel it?” It wouldn’t hurt him to tease him a bit more. Just like he always did when he wanted to feel what you felt he sought out the touch of your skin on his- and shuddered. “Oh my.” He whispered and touched you again as if to make sure. “My love!” His gaze locked with yours, wide with surprise. Then, the most brilliant smile split his sometimes eternal frown. “Is it really-?” You nodded and placed a hand on your belly. “Ilona will have her first sibling soon.” With that, Aleksander started frantically talking. “I must have been so distracted by all the planning that I haven’t even noticed it, I can’t believe it! Our second child! For how long! We must make preparations at once, call a Healer-” Tears of joy in your eyes, you shut him up with a kiss on the lips. “I’ve already talked to Asa, the same healer as last time. He figures I’m about four moons along. So there’s still plenty of time for us to prepare.” Aleksander just looked at you completely starstruck for a moment. “I love you.” He finally murmured. You smiled, placing your hand on top of his on your belly. “I love you more.”

Soon after, your first son would be born. Your lovely little boy, named Kiran. Ilona was completely smitten with him, just like you and your husband. After him, four more children followed. Some were sun summoners like you, some shadow summoners like your beloved husband, some both, like Ilona. But all of them would gain legendary status throughout the centuries. They would travel the world, help settle conflicts between the neighbouring countries that rose and fell as if in the blink of an eye. Nostova, on the contrary, remained eternal. Like you and your husband. Its peace had allowed Grisha to grow stronger than ever, and your nation now counted many thousand people as its citizens. Sometimes, your children would visit you in your capital. Some of them had settled down there, too, like Ilona. She had married a heartrender, and their children came to play with you and your husband on Sundays. Your life had become gentle, and kind. You could see it in your husband’s face, too, every day. Only the boldest of kings and queens dared threaten your home, and it barely happened for any of them to follow through with their threats. Neither you nor your husband had any regular fighting or defending to do. You had been allowed to devote yourselves to ruling justly and fair, raise a healthy nation. In the mornings, you stood by your bedroom’s window and watched young Grisha train the use of their powers. In the evenings, you fell asleep side by side, still giggling about the day’s happenings just like when you had both been young and restless. Grisha from all over the world had found peace. And so had you.

#shadow and bone #shadow and bone netflix #darkling #general kirigan #darkling x reader #general kirigan x reader #ben barnes #ben barnes supremacy #ben barnes x reader #aleksander morozova #aleksander morozova x reader #sun summoner #grishaverse #leigh Bardugo #smut #villain reader

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112aang · 4 years ago

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Kataang Week 2021: Day 1- Reunion

7 days filled with 7 prompts, all about Kataang. Here is my first submission for this year’s Kataang Week, ‘Reunion.’

Words: 1,836

You can find my ff.net page here, where each day’s entry will be posted, as well as my other stories.

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Katara stood, staring blankly out of the window into the dark, night sky of the Southern Air Temple. She watched as a few air acolytes walked the grounds, tidying up before going to bed.

She had been alone, without him, for two months and was feeling withdraw take over. They had been married for almost two years, and had decided to settle down in his childhood home after the wedding. She had to repeatedly remind herself that he was the Avatar, therefore he wouldn’t always be around; he belonged to the world, not to her. But that didn’t make it any easier on her heart.

Aang had been helping Sokka and Zuko plan and build Republic City off and on for about a year. But two months ago, he was called to the city and hadn’t returned. Katara had guessed that something came up- something that required assistance that only the Avatar could provide. She had received a message by hawk a month into his absence, stating that he would need to stay longer than originally planned, but nothing more- no explanation, and no prediction of exactly how long. She became worried; terrified that something had happened to her husband.

As she looked out into the darkness, her gaze rose, falling on the almost full moon. She thought of Yue, and of her brother. Katara’s mind hadn’t gone that direction in years, but in that moment, she wondered how much Sokka missed the white-haired woman. Of course, he had been married to Suki for almost five years, but did he ever think about Yue? About his first love- the woman whom he couldn’t have.

She sighed, lowering her gaze again, setting it on the stars. Katara loved the Southern Air Temple and the views it provided, especially at night. Their bedroom was at the top of a tower, overlooking the entire temple. From her window, she could see everything- from the courtyard, to the bison resting platform, to the air ball court. The waterbender smiled wistfully, thinking of Aang, and of the first time she had seen the temple.

At first glance, it looked shattered, forgotten in time. But as her eyes fell on the young airbender, she could see the liveliness that had once been, laying under the rubble. His energy radiated off the fallen walls and broken concrete, almost patching them up completely.

When he had asked her if they could settle in the home he once knew, she didn’t even have to think twice about her answer. The air acolytes had been occupying each of the temples, restoring them to their former glory as they learned about the nearly forgotten Air Nomad culture.

Katara could see Aang’s beaming smile in her mind and wished she could go back to that moment, just to see his face again. She absentmindedly placed a hand over her lower abdomen, still staring into the sky.

Aang didn’t know- he couldn’t have known. She had only learned of the baby a month ago, and chose to leave the news out of the returning letter to her husband. They had spoken about children many times throughout their relationship, even before the wedding. Katara knew, as well as Aang, his duty to the world regarding the Air Nation. Being the last airbender, he was responsible for restoring the lost civilization. This task had been looming over his head like a dark cloud since the end of the 100-year war, despite his young age at the time.

The world leaders, including his best friend, Zuko, had been on his case about the subject for years. They had even gone as far as to suggest having multiple surrogates carry his children, in hope of enhancing the chance of producing an airbending child. Aang had shot down that idea immediately, not wanting the idea even on the table. He had chosen Katara and was not going to have children with anyone else, nor was he going to have children solely for the restoration of the Air Nation.

Katara knew what was expected of Aang, but it didn’t turn her away. She loved him and was willing to do whatever it took to help him fulfill his duty to the world.

After telling him, he had put the idea out of her head as quick as it left her lips.

“I want to have children with you because I love you, not because I have to,” he had told her, making her smile.

She had protested slightly, but after much conversation with Aang, she had eventually given in. After all, she also wanted to have children with him for the same reason.

Katara looked down, eyes on her stomach and smiled tenderly, placing both hands on the barely noticeable bump.

She spoke softly, “you are already loved more than you know, my little one.”

Growing up in the South Pole, she had helped her Gran Gran deliver many children, and being a master healer, she had assisted many women with their pregnancies over the years. But feeling a child within herself was a different sensation altogether, and she relished in every facet of it. She didn’t mind the morning sickness, or the cravings- not even the beginnings of swollen ankles and the forgetfulness that she knew accompanied some pregnancies. She only wished Aang were there to share the moments with.

Katara found herself missing him more than she thought she would, but inevitably blamed it on the hormones accompanying her new pregnancy. She had gone months without him before, but had never felt as alone as she did in this moment.

She would often lay awake at night, turning sideways in their bed, imagining him there, next to her. At one point, she had decided to sleep in a guest room, thinking that maybe a change of scenery would help her fall asleep. Sadly, it was all in vain; each time she would close her eyes, Aang’s smiling face was the only thing she could see.

Tonight, however, Katara had decided to give into the insomnia. She remained by the window, staring into the darkness, imagining Appa flying in the distance. She imagined Aang finally coming home to her after two long months.

The waterbender watched as the few remaining acolytes made their way inside, making Katara wonder whether they missed their teacher as much as she missed her husband.

He had been teaching them Air Nomad customs and ways of life for years now, and was relishing in it. She adored seeing him in his natural habitat, educating others about his people.

Katara smiled sadly as a single tear streamed down her face. The waterbender closed her eyes, hugging herself gently. She silently prayed to the spirits for them to bring Aang home- to bring him back to her.

As if they heard her silent pleas, her airbender walked into the bedroom a moment later, utilizing his light footsteps as not to frighten her. His eyes were soft as he watched her form in the window, her back to him. Aang smiled longingly and walked up to her, stopping a few steps short.

“Katara?” he spoke softly, making her eyes open slowly.

She turned around hesitantly, hopeful that it wasn’t an imagination. As her eyes fell on him, she placed a hand over her mouth, tears beginning to cascade down her face. Katara lunged at him, throwing him off balance for a split second until he stood firm, wrapping his arms tightly around her waist.

The waterbender clung to him, digging her face into Aang’s chest, holding on for dear life, as her tears flowed. His own tears began to fall as he hugged her tighter, not wanting to ever let go.

They didn’t speak- they didn’t need to. The two benders clung to each other, eventually sinking to the floor, never letting go.

After what seemed like an eternity, the sobs calmed to slight whimpers between the two, and she kissed him. He returned her kiss with much fervor, holding her face in his hands while she gripped his robes and pulled him closer. After a few moments they reluctantly pulled away, resting their foreheads together. Katara was catching her breath, smiling uncontrollably as Aang did the same. He looked into her blue eyes with his grey ones, tears still slowly falling.

Katara kissed him again, this time short and sweet. He pulled his face from hers and rubbed his thumbs across her cheeks, love emanating from his eyes into hers.

“Aang…” she started, placing her forehead against his once more. “You’re back.”

He smiled, “I am.”

“I missed you,” she pecked his lips. “So much.”

“I missed you too.”

They remained on the stone floor, locked in each other’s embrace for what felt like hours, before finally moving to the bed.

Aang sat in the middle of the bed, leaning against the wall, arms wrapped around Katara as she sat between his legs, her back against his chest. Their cheeks were stained with tears, but still they wore smiles. The waterbender softly traced the arrow on Aang’s hand as he kissed the top of her head lovingly.

“Katara,” he started, quietly. “I’m sorry I was gone for so long; Zuko- “

“No,” she cut him off. “I don’t want to know.”

He started to speak again, to explain the reasoning behind his long absence, but she sat up and turned around in his arms, now facing him.

She caught his lips with hers, one hand cupping his cheek. She pulled away delicately and smiled.

“All that matters is that you’re here now.”

He smiled and wrapped his arms around her, pulling her close. They stayed that way for a few moments before she pulled away, ready to tell him the news.

“Aang,” she said, sitting in front of him, looking down slightly. “I have... news.”

He became slightly worried, waiting patiently for her to explain further.

She moved a hand to her lower abdomen and looked at him, love apparent in her eyes. His eyebrows raised slightly, mind wandering.

“I’m having a baby… you’re going to be a father.”

Aang eyes filled with tears and he gave her a lopsided grin, making her giggle softly as her eyes became glossy.

“You’re pregnant?”

Katara nodded and he pulled her into an embrace, holding her snug against him. Aang didn’t speak for a few minutes- he just held her close, tears streaming down his face once more as he smiled into her hair.

“I found out shortly after you left and wanted to wait until you got back to tell you.”

She pulled away and he held her face in his hands before pulling her into a passionate kiss, to which she responded with much intensity. They each smiled into the kiss as tears of joy ran down their faces.

He pulled away and rested his forehead against hers, eyes closed, still holding onto her face softly.

“I love you,” he breathed.

She smiled and pecked his nose tenderly.

“I love you too.”

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Next will be ‘Home.’

Thank you for reading, and I hope you enjoyed my submission for day 1 of Kataang Week 2021.

#kataang #aang and katara #kataang fanfic #kataang week #they are always soulemates #gosh i love them #the sweeties #atla #atla aang #atla katara #atla kataang

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colesterstrudel · 3 years ago

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Staring out the window wistfully saying “when will my husband return from war” but literally instead of ironically for a laugh 😂

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sabineelectricheart · 4 years ago

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A Lighter Burden

Summary: No one is useless in this world who lightens the burden of another.

Rating: K+ - Suitable for more mature childen, 9 years and older, with minor action violence without serious injury. May contain mild coarse language. Should not contain any adult themes.

Words: 2900

Notes: I found this picture on a site for a store called Gilbert Chocolates. It was meant to be.

Delicate bits of crystallized ivory cascaded from the grey, cloud-cloaked sky to blanket the quiet lane between his home and the lonely window which was his destiny.

These days, the sky always seemed overcast. Ever since 1929, they had not seen the sun’s generous shine in Burlone, which was fitting for the overall mood of its inhabitants.

There was a biting chill woven throughout the strong currents of wind that accompanied the descending white flurries, making it difficult for Gilbert to really appreciate the mesmerizing, even innocent, display as he trudged through the empty, sad streets.

The frigid air tore at the exposed skin of his face and neck in a distracting assault, forcing him to pull the heavy lids of his coat further down over his face for protection. As a result, Gilbert's vision was obscured, and he was forced to stare at the ground while he made his way tirelessly through the storm.

The weather was far too terrible for anyone to be out and about. It was the sort of morning that would have been better spent enjoying the storm from the tranquil warmth of home.

Gilbert thought of the comfy chair beside the stone fireplace in his sitting room and felt a pang of desperate longing. He would give almost anything to be in the cosy shelter of the too-large manor house he shared with his beautiful wife. However, he had needed to do some early morning shopping, and there was one more stop on his list before he could make a hasty return home.

His last destination was a small store on a quiet promenade of Creta, looming closer to the Falzone territory than to the headquarters of the organization that supported and protected it. Ferrero Confectionary was a place he had found himself frequenting more and more often over the last few months.

It seemed so strange to Gilbert that he had not stepped foot in his old turf after he left for America for his liquor business, though those buildings and the people that lived on them held so many memories for him. He had been far too preoccupied with building an empire, amassing wealth, he ended up forgetting what was once important to him.

Now, years later, after his North American endeavour greatly diminished its returns, he was suddenly back in town, trying to find wise investments for his money and manpower, in a country ravaged by war, authoritarianism and economic crisis, all on the while dredging up nostalgic thoughts of times long past and making new memories for his collection.

A smile tugged one corner of his mouth up into a lopsided grin when he thought of the reason behind his recent visits to the local chocolatier. Each trip began and ended because of the love he held in his heart for Liliana. She was a beautiful spark of radiance in what would be, without her, an otherwise dreary, meaningless and ultimately short life.

To Gilbert she was the rarest of diamonds, yet she did not see herself in the same light that he did. Whenever he tried to tell Lili exactly why she was such an amazing person, his wife would give him a humouring smile. Still, Gilbert knew she did not really believe all of the wonderful words he used to describe her. She was precious to him, and Gilbert only wished she could see herself through his eyes.

Lili was even more precious to him these days than ever before. Especially now that she was suffering from such constant bouts of illness. All Gilbert wanted was to make life better for the woman that he loved, and one sure-fire way of achieving that was to pay a visit to the old Ferrero couple, Nina and Adamo, the owners of his wife’s favourite confectioner, and the only people who can come even closer to match her, presently unavailable, talent for sweets, in his unbiased opinion.

If he could spend just a few coins on something that would ease Lili's torment, Gilbert could not think of any reason why he should not do just that. He would spend much, much more than that, after all. He had too much to spare.

What was it that his wife read to him once? No one is useless in this world who lightens the burden of another? He wanted to lighten any and all burdens Lili was carrying. Jesus, he would throw fistfuls of bills at the couple if it would give Lili even one single refreshed sigh.

Gilbert raised his dark head when he felt the ground begin to climb beneath his boot-clad feet. The tiny square stretched out before him, just as deserted as the avenue behind him had been. It would seem that everyone else must have thought better of going out early, preferring to stay out of the weather.

A, albeit comparatively small, pillowing of snow had fallen over the little village throughout the night, but it still was a lot for Burlone’s usual Mediterranean disposition. It was no surprise that the ground sat untouched.

His were the only footprints to mar the beautiful perfection as he walked to the front door of the sweetshop. The green door swung open easily on well-oiled hinges when he turned the golden knob and pushed it open. The tiny bell overhead tinkled throughout the uncanny silence filling the shop, alerting both of the proprietors of his arrival.

Adamo looked up from a batch of fudge cooling on the counter before him. The little old man flashed a smile of greeting when he recognized Gilbert's flushed face peeking out from beneath the dark and inconspicuous hood.

"Ah, Gilbert my boy! We didn't expect you to visit us this morning, what with the weather being as it is." The old man gave a familiar chuckle as he hobbled from behind the counter to take Gilbert's hand in his own. He gave it a quick, squeezing shake and said, "Nina and I were sure you would wait until the temperature was a little more agreeable."

"Good morning, Adamo!" Gilbert said with a grin. "I probably wouldn't have come had I not known that poor Lili was about to run out of her favourite sweets. You know, they're the only thing that really make her feel somewhat better."

"Really? I had no idea." The chocolatier chuckled again and wrapped an arm around Gilbert's shoulders. As he led him over to the counter where Nina was working, he said, "You are a good lad, Gilbert. To look after your wife in such a way shows just how much you love her."

Gilbert nodded his deep-red head in agreement as he pushed his hood back, causing unruly locks of auburn hair to fall across his face. He felt a small warmth on his face starting to bloom, but years of schooling one’s expression did wonders to hide embarrassment. "I do love her, sir. She's my everything."

"Where is the Madama this morning?" Adamo asked with real concern. He always asked Gilbert where Lili was and how she was doing.

"I left her at home, in bed.” He responded, with a demurer tone than the usual. “She was exhausted after being up all night, as always. I thought I'd let her get a little rest while I went gift-shopping. How happy she will be when she wakes up to a latte and fine chocolate?"

Nina looked up from what she was doing to give Gilbert an approving look, as a mother would when their son proved the good upbringing she provided.

"That lovely girl is lucky to have such a gallant man looking after her. Not all husbands are as considerate are you are, Gilbert, dear." She threw a look in her husband's direction and smiled wistfully. "I know exactly how lucky she must feel with you there. Adamo, for all his faults, has always taken such good care of me when I'm ill."

Gilbert watched as the dark-haired woman stretched a hand out to pat her husband's face gently. He did not know why, but witnessing the small display of love between the couple made him feel both uncomfortable and content.

He was witnessing a tender moment that felt as if it should have been private, something secret between the two. Yet, at the same time, he felt as if he were looking through a window of what he hoped would be the future for him and Lili.

To preserve their privacy, the redhead looked away from the pair and waited for the moment to pass, not wanting to interrupt something so sweet.

After a few minutes, Adamo said, "Well, Gilbert, what will the order be today? Another sack of Lombard liquorice for your little lady? Perhaps some peppermint candy canes? Or will it just be the usual?"

Gilbert's green eyes flicked back to the couple. On the other side of the counter, Nina was working again. She was wrapping chocolates in clear plastic wrappers and tying them shut with little pieces of scarlet ribbon. Looking closer, the man saw that they were chocolate roses perched on top of thin wooden sticks, resembling the real thing, minus the nasty thorns. Somehow, they seemed to gleam a brilliant red, as if they had been dipped in a cherry varnish. He thought they looked too beautiful to simply be eaten.

When Gilbert looked toward Adamo, the older man was leaning against the counter waiting patiently for his order.

"Just the usual today!” He responded with a smirk. “I want to go back home as soon as possible, but I need to get another big box of your almond truffles. Those are Lili's favourites, and they really seem to help her when she's feeling unwell."

"That must be your lucky day, then. We pulled a fresh batch of truffles from the refrigerator just earlier this morning, and I was just about to box them. I'll go get it now, it’ll just be a second!" The old man said with a wink.

He turned and hobbled back toward the counter where he had been standing when Gilbert arrived.

The redheaded crime lord, then, turned his gaze back to the chocolates Nina was still wrapping while he waited, and asked, "What have you been concocting all this time, signora?"

She looked up to see him watching her intently. "Oh, these right here? They are some of my favourites. I have to keep myself away from them or else we wouldn't have any left to sell."

The woman held one of the wrapped chocolates out to him for inspection. He took it and looked at it very closely while she spoke. "These are chocolate covered roses. I've chosen some of the sweetest roses that I could find and dipped them into a perfectly tempered dark chocolate. When you eat them, they taste just like chocolate covered strawberries."

"You mean there are actual roses inside of these?! I didn't know a person could eat roses!" Gilbert realized that his voice sounded sceptical as he spoke, and he hoped that the sweet old woman behind the counter would not take offense.

He need not have worried. She gave him a kind smile as she said, "Oh yes, dear. People can eat all of the different types of roses. They're not toxic, and quite delicious indeed. Each one has a different flavour. Some are sweet, like these, and taste like a bit like strawberries. Others give off a bitter punch. Does your young lady like chocolate?"

"Yes, she does. Lili would love these. She's always appreciated the chocolates that you make, Nina." Gilbert handed the chocolate back to her, careful not to drop it.

The shopkeeper seemed pleased at hearing that. "I've always taken great pride in my handmade chocolates. I'm happy to hear that Signora Redford enjoys them so much."

"Here you go, lad!" Adamo said. He had had made his way back with a large, wooden brown box held in both hands. He offered it to Gilbert with a grin. "I certainly hope that this batch of bonbons is just as good as the last. That blond associate of yours dropped off a letter here the last time you took some home to Lili. She wrote that they were the best batch yet! I don’t want to have her disappointed now."

Gilbert chuckled. Lili was the sort of person to do something like that. Though she was sick almost day and night, she would have taken the time to let the sweet old couple know just how much she loved their treats.

"I'm glad to hear it.” He responded with joy. “I had no idea she'd sent you a letter."

"I've mentioned it more than a few times over the years, Gilbert. That Lili is a lovely girl. She's been very kind to a couple of old timers like us. I can't remember the last time we received so many complementary cards and tips." Adamo patted him on the shoulder. "Make sure you give her our love."

"I definitively will!" Gilbert responded.

He watched as the old man nodded his head and then moved off to continue working on the batch of fudge waiting for him.

Gilbert reached inside of his trench coat to pull out the stuffy wallet resting deep within an inner pocket. It was weighty in his hand, having been filled up earlier that morning, and he had to rest it on the counter to count the ever-devalued currency. The box of chocolate truffles would normally cost just a few lire, but Gilbert liked to leave a couple of extra bills for the little old couple.

He pulled out five hundred lire and held them out for Nina to take. She was waiting for him, having already taken the box from him to place in a bag, so that she could put the money in the ancient till.

He was just taking up the bag to leave when she said. "Wait, dear. Take these back for Lili. I believe you once said lilac was her favourite colour, yes?"

Gilbert stared with wide eyes as the woman took another box from the counter, one with a big lilac ribbon, and pushed it into his hands. The box had a clear cover so that he could see inside. It was filled with at least a dozen chocolate roses.

"Oh, Nina! That’s mighty generous of you, but I can't just take these.” The mafioso argued. “How much would you normally charge?"

She shook her head at him. "You're a good man, Gilbert Redford. You have been looking after a sick wife for months now, never once complaining. On top of that, you've been giving a little extra pocket money to a couple of old farts that haven't done anything to deserve it. Now, you take these to your wife. I won't take no for an answer."

Gilbert felt a wave of emotion wash over him at her words. "Nina, Adamo, you do deserve the extra pocket money. You've helped Lili throughout her entire pregnancy with your sweets. She's been sick nonstop for months now, and the only time she gets any relief is when she's enjoying some of your handmade candy. She jokes that the baby will be the sweetest in the world because of how much she eats. I'm grateful for all that you two do for her without even knowing how much it helps."

Nina hurried around the counter to pull the redhead into a tight hug. "You are such a sweet man, Gilbert."

He wasn't sure what to say, so Gilbert said nothing. He just took Nina into his arms and returned the squeezing hug. She sniffled when she pulled away and wiped a quick hand against her cheek as if brushing away tears.

"Thank you, Nina." He said, earnest.

"Oh, one last thing before you go!" sSe said with a watery smile. Her hands were clutching a smaller bag that she had taken from the countertop. "I want you to have these. I know that it isn't much, but I know these are some of your favourites. I've been slowly gathering things for you since you started coming in to get those silly candies for Lili. There's a bit of chocolate in there, a few types of fudge, some cakes and a piece of cherry jam pie. I remember you being fond of it when you were a boy."

Gilbert looked at the bag in his hands and thought of how he could express his gratitude. As if realizing his struggle, Nina said, "There's no need to say anything, dear. I know how much you appreciate what we do for you." She pulled him into another quick hug before pushing him to the door. "You get home to Lili. I'm sure she'll be missing you."

He moved toward the door as he cast a glance at both of them over his shoulder. The old woman had gone to take her husband’s hand in her own, and they both watched him head off into the storm.

It seemed almost sad that he should be leaving them there. They had become a fixture in his life over the months. However, all of them knew that in a few days’ time he would be back for more goodies.

He had to come back because Gilbert needs to make rainbows in all of Lili's clouds.

*_*_*_*_*

Piofiore Masterlist

#piofiore #gilbert redford

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marvelsbestsuperheroine · 6 years ago

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NatSharon Request - Legendary

Words: 1,848

Prompt: Hi, could you please write natsharon? Where they are introduced to each other by Peggy just after Clint brings Natasha into SHIELD and they start feeling things for one another since day one, they try to keep it a friendship because they don't know what the other wants but at the end the feelings are so strong that they end up confessing their feelings and in a secret relationship. Thank you in advance, you are really nice and talented! Please keep it coming! 😘

A/N. Thanks, Anon, for the request :) I’ve never written NatSharon before and it’s a little rushed. I apologize. I hope you like it!

The legendary Peggy Carter opens the door and smiles. Her hair is long and grey, her face sunken in with wrinkles, but her eyes and smile are warm. She ushers them inside, saying something about the rain and how dreary the weather is today when it had been so sunny just yesterday.

Natasha takes it all in. The little mahogany table with a bouquet of orchids and a set of intricately carved coasters that look vaguely African. The Chinese-style rugs and tapestries that adorn the walls. The toasted yellow paint. Peggy Carter has lived a life well-travelled, almost as well-travelled as Natasha’s, though she doubts it.

Agent Carter leads them down a hallway to the kitchen with white cupboards and sleek dark marble countertops. The tiles are cold and Peggy wears fuzzy slippers that flap about her heels when she moves around the house. Natasha and Clint make do with socks.

“Would either of you like a cup of tea?” Peggy offers.

Natasha raises her hand to decline but Clint jumps to answer first. “Yes, please, Agent Carter.”

She makes a scoffing noise but somehow more polite, more British. “I’m not an Agent anymore, son. Just an old woman now.”

Clint smirks and doesn’t argue, as if he’s tried that before and lost.

“Please,” she says, gesturing to the stools around the island. “Have a seat. It won’t be a moment.”

They sit and Natasha notices the trinkets behind glass cabinet doors. There’s an assortment of eclectic teacups, no one matching another. There are ceramic figurines of a dancing couple, the woman in a red dress and the man in a green military uniform. There are wine glasses cut from thick crystal and then there are cheap shot glasses you’d find in the tackiest souvenir shops around the world. There must be at least thirty shot glasses in that cabinet.

Peggy follows Natasha’s gaze to the display case. “Which one would you prefer?” She points to the teacups. There’s one of every colour, each with a beautiful design.

“The... yellow one.” She had been about to respond with ‘red’ but then she remembered. She’s supposed to leave her past behind. No more Red Room. No more Black Widow. No more Natalia Alianovna Romanova. Just Natasha Romanoff. Yellow is a happy colour despite how close it sits to red on the colour wheel. It was the first colour that came to mind.

“Purple,” says Clint, drumming his fingers on the counter idly. He keeps glancing at Natasha and she keeps wanting him to stop.

“Complementary colours,” Peggy muses as she reaches up to grab them. She wears black pants and a white blouse with a bright blue cardigan over her shoulders. It’s not quite business casual, not with the fuzzy slippers, but she looks sharp. Natasha wonders if a woman like Peggy could ever look anything less.

“How are you, Peggy?” asks Clint, tilting his head.

“I’m perfectly alright,” she answers, detecting the concern in his tone. “I still remember your name, if that’s what you’re worried about, Barton.” Clint opens his mouth to object. “Let’s not start on this. Not today.” She’s focused entirely on collecting the sugar, honey, and milk from their respective spots in her kitchen, not looking at either of them.

Clint closes his mouth.

Natasha squirms on her stool. She wants to say something. Anything. Clint didn’t bring her here to bask in the glory that was Peggy Carter. “It’s an honour,” Natasha manages to say. Her hands fold themselves together on the ice cold counter.

Peggy regards her, kicking the pantry door shut behind her as her hands are full of honey and sugar. “I could say the same, Agent Romanoff.”

Natasha blinks. She doesn’t have to hide her surprise, not in front of these people. You’re safe. “I...” She swallows. “Why would you say that?”

Peggy sets the containers on the counter as the kettle begins to whistle. “You’ve accomplished many things for a girl your age,” she says and turns to remove the kettle from the stovetop. “Admittedly, probably too many things.”

Natasha stares at her own hands. The cold from the counter is seeping into her skin. She can hear the water sloshing into the cups, the metal spoon clinking against ceramic. Peggy delivers two teacups on saucers to Clint and Natasha. The steam looks inviting and Natasha reaches for it.

“Do you take anything in your tea?” Peggy asks, gesturing at the honey, milk and sugar.

Natasha hugs the cup with both hands. It’s scalding. “No thank you.”

Peggy eyes the cup. “Dear, that’s what the plates are for.”

Sheepishly, Natasha sets the cup back down and grabs the plate and handle instead. She no longer feels hot or cold. She doesn’t feel anything.

Clint flicks his gaze between the two. “I’ll have sugar please.”

Peggy turns to him. “How much?”

“All of it.” He grins.

She rolls her eyes but obligingly dumps too much sugar in his tea. After putting a dollop of milk in hers, she picks up her teacup. “Let’s find somewhere more comfortable to chat, shall we?”

They find themselves in Peggy’s living room. Natasha would describe it as cozy. There’s a small TV that’s playing the news on low volume. There are two windows that would normally let in sunlight, but now only reveal the misery of today’s rain. The window is framed by dark red curtains and there are photos adorning most of the opposite wall, some in black and white and some in colour, all framed in different wooden frames. Natasha stares at one, arguably the centrepiece of the whole wall.

It’s Captain America but... not. It was him before. Before he was big and strong and red, white, and blue. The photo is torn and wrinkled and yellow with age but still good. He’s squinting, probably from being in the sun.

For the second time that day, Peggy follows Natasha’s gaze. “Everyone always stares at that photo. It’s like they’ve never seen him before.” She tsks into her tea and takes a sip.

Natasha looks away. “Not everyone’s seen him like that.”

“Why should it matter that he looks different?”

“It matters that you have a picture of him. Like that.” Natasha purses her lips and looks away. She was stepping out of bounds.

Peggy doesn’t seem bothered. If anything, she seems encouraged. “How so?”

“Well... you wouldn’t frame it unless...”

“Unless I had a shrine to him in my living room?”

Clint snorts into his tea and then promptly burns his upper lip.

“Unless he meant something to you,” Natasha finishes.

Peggy smiles wistfully. “He changed the course of my whole life. Whether he knew it or not. And I’m so thankful for it. For him.”

Natasha nods. Around the photo of Captain America are photos of Peggy’s husband and three children in various stages of life. There are also more recent pictures of Peggy with her grandchildren, everyone smiling so brightly.

“Natasha.” She turns at the sound of her name. Peggy has an amused twinkle in her eye. “Maybe I’m not the best person you should be talking to.”

“What do you mean?”

“Yeah, Peggy?” Clint echoes, still dabbing at his burnt mouth with a napkin.

Peggy sets down her tea onto the coffee table. “Give me your phone.” She gestures at Natasha. “I promise I won’t steal it. Come on then.”

Natasha reaches into her pocket and deposits it into Peggy’s hand. After fiddling with it for a minute she hands it back. “There,” she says. “I’ve put in a new number. My niece. She’s a SHIELD agent as well. Very down to Earth. Great listener. Different perspective. I’m very proud of her. You should give her a call. You’re obviously uncomfortable talking to me.”

“Agent Carter,” Natasha tries to protest.

Peggy waves the words away. “I take no offence, honestly. Though I am a little tired of people being tongue-tied around me, truth be told.” She smiles again. “More tea?”

It took years before Natasha ever gave Peggy’s niece a call, less than that to fall in love with her. Clint had thought it would be good for Natasha to meet Peggy, see what a SHIELD legend was like, what she could aspire to, and maybe convince Natasha to say anything at all. Those first few years at SHIELD after he recruited her were tough. She’d had a lot of shit to work through. Peggy had helped, in some small way, but not as much as Sharon.

They met when they were assigned on a mission together. They clicked immediately, bantering and debating and even going so far as maybe flirting. But she’s dating someone - some guy - and it’s not the right time. They go their separate ways.

They meet again right before the Chitauri invasion and again on some other mission. Sharon is bright and warm, easy to laugh, easy to love. She can be fierce, too, when she needs to. But what Natasha loves about her most is how positive she is. Sharon never gives up hope, never loses faith. Does she doubt? Sometimes. But her strength always returns full force.

But Natasha doesn’t deserve someone like Sharon. Steve does. And Sharon deserves someone like Steve, not Natasha. That’s why she tries to set them up but they’re too similar, both stubborn. It falls apart.

It’s not until after, after the civil war, after hiding in Wakanda for so many months, that she gives Peggy’s niece a call. She had forgotten the number was there, had refused to dial it out of self-pity. But now, at the end of her rope and needing someone to talk to - anyone - she dials.

And Sharon picks up. Natasha feels so stupid because of course the most righteous person she knows besides Steve is Peggy Carter’s niece. Peggy hadn’t put a name in Natasha’s contacts and Sharon had never said and Natasha had never put two and two together.

They have a good laugh about it and then...

Then the confessions happen. Over video chat, of all places. “I’ve liked you since I first met you,” Sharon says. “Teasing me about being blonde. Now, look at you.”

Natasha laughs and touches her own hair, pale blonde instead of bright red. “Do you like it?”

“It’s hot,” Sharon admits and Natasha feels warm. “But I liked the red better.”

When all is said and done and the world restored to its former glory, Natasha pays a visit to Peggy’s grave. “You were right,” she says as she kneels in front of the tombstone. “You were right the whole time and I should’ve listened to you.” There’s no answer. “Did you know? That we would fall for each other? Start a secret relationship during the end of the world? Were you really just playing matchmaker the whole time?” She laughs and shakes her head. “Either way, I just wanted to say thank you. You said you couldn’t help me but you were wrong. You saved me.”

Natasha walks away from the grave, hand in hand with the legendary Agent Sharon Carter.

#prompt #prompt me #fanfiction #marvel #mcu #sharon carter #natasha romanoff #black widow #natsharon #avengers #agent 13 #peggy carter #agent carter #natasha x sharon

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kr1g · 6 years ago

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*staring wistfully out of the bay window*

when will my husband roommates return from the war their respective jobs

#this house is.. lonely when its just me #ive been off work for less than a day and im booooooored

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blindersbeach · 7 years ago

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back home

wc: 1036

blurb: after waiting so long, John finally comes home from the war.

requested: I need some fluffy John in my life. Can you write one about John coming back from the war and the first night that they spend together and just them talking about how they’ve missed each and stuff. Thank you x - anonymous

It was any day now. John would be coming home and you wouldn’t have to worry. Your kids wouldn’t have to ask where their father was. The war was finally over. Ever since you read the headline in the paper, you were at the train station everyday until your work started to call you to come back in. You almost decided to quit. Tommy and Arthur still weren’t back either. Polly was starting to get worried, but knew that they were all going to return home.

“He is going to come home any minute now.” Mary said as you were taking your weekly stroll with her, that turned daily as the war proceeded. It helped you not worry as much. She was your neighbor, whom you got close with when both of your husbands left for the war. Although, her husband came back early because he was wounded and in need of a proper hospital. She helped you get your thoughts straight too. Mary would always pull you back in if you were going down a rabbit hole, like when you were thought about enlisting to join John.

“I know, but he isn't. I am more worried than when he left.” You said as Mary hugged you. She was sad for you and she didn’t like seeing you so worried. She wanted you to have your husband home like she had, but Mary also knew that you were strong enough to wait as long as you had to.

Once you got home from your walk and the kids ate dinner, you decided to spend some alone time. You went to your bedroom and began to read the letters from John. In the box that had all twenty four letters, there was also your wedding photo, a photo of John in uniform, and the flower that he had bought you on your first date. The flower was dried and dead, but your love for John hadn’t. You started with the first letter, dated November 21, 1914. John stated how much he had missed you, like in most of his letters. He had just arrived at his base. He also wrote about Tommy and Arthur trying to be the boss over everything even though they weren’t in charge. The one after that was from December 1914 and how he wished he was home by the fire cuddling with you. He wanted to be there for not only Christmas, but also your anniversary that was a week before. You started to cry as you kept reading letter after letter.

A few hours later you were pulled out of your saddened state from the knocking and the ringing from your door. Who could be at your door this late? The fookin’ cavalry? The last letter from John was still in your hand when you answered the door. You wiped your tears away.

“What is it that you want so bloody late?” You said rubbing your eyes. When you stopped you realized who it was. “Is it really you, John?! Are you really home? I started to think that you weren’t coming back.” You touched his chest making sure that he was real and that you weren’t dreaming. He dropped his bag and held you in his arms. He had the largest grin possible. Naturally, you started crying again. The feeling of him and seeing him caused a purge of emotion.

“I’m never leaving you again.” John said kissing you passionately. He wiped your tears away while cupping your face. He picked up his bag again as you led him in the house.

He noticed that it hadn’t changed much since he had left bringing a smile to his face. The familiarity brought comfort to him. When he reached the bedroom he slammed the door shut not wanting anything to interrupt his time with you. He saw an open box on the bed with papers and memories scattered everywhere. As he got closer he saw that they were the letters he had written to you. He smiled again knowing that you had received and cherished all of them. You put them away in the box and slid it under the bed. John laid on the bed staring at you with the happiest face. It was the first time he was sleeping on something so comfortable and soft. He was glad to be home and not fighting alongside his brothers and other volunteers. He was glad to see your face and not just on a small 2x3 photo of you and him on your wedding day. You had laid next to him on your side with a hand on his chest. He pulled you as close as possible keeping hold of you.

“I missed you so much, I was going insane.” John said kissing the top of your head. “I almost had Tommy hurt me so I could get home to you. Arthur joked about it a few times.” He started to chuckle.

“That’s not funny, John!” You slapped his chest.

“It was supposed to be romantic.” John knew you had rolled your eyes. You had missed these nights. The nights where the only light was the moon seeping through the window, John holding you in his arms, and talk of nonsense. John intertwined your fingers in his. “I’ve missed this. This sounds weird, but I missed how you felt. Your dainty fingers in mine. Your body close to mine. I didn’t think I was going to make it. Those letters kept me through it. The thought of coming back to you, you are my home.”

You paused focusing on the words and the moment. “John, can I tell you something?” He hummed a simple yes. “I am really proud of you and I love you so much more for it. Leaving and fighting for your country isn’t an easy thing. I don’t think I could do it. I could barely do it here.” You felt John hold onto you tighter.

“I love you so much.” You lifted your head and wistfully kissed his lips. You both fell asleep in each others arms. The many sleepless nights were finally over. The constant worry had vanished. John was home and everything seemed perfect.

#peaky blinders #peaky blinder imagine #peaky blinders imagine #peaky blinder #john shelby #john shelby imagine #john shelby x reader #john shelby x #thomas shelby #arthur shelby #michael gray #finn shelby #polly gray #polly shelby #ada thorne #peaky blinders one shot #peaky blinder fanfic #john shelby one shot #john shelby fanfic

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sushigirlali · 7 years ago

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Finding You - Part VIII (Reylo Fanfic)

Part I - Part II - Part III - Part IV - Part V - Part VI - Part VII - Part VIII - Part IX

Summary: Unseen forces move against Kylo Ren from within the First Order as he struggles to unravel Snoke’s deceptions / Rey must balance her relationship with Ben Solo and her dedication to the cause that opposes him / Leia Organa makes a desperate plea to an old friend in a last ditch effort to restore the Resistance. Pairing: Rey x Kylo Ren/Ben Solo [Reylo] [ReyBen] Continuity: Set directly after Star Wars: Episode VIII - The Last Jedi ends. Disclaimer: I do not own Star Wars or anything that relates to Star Wars.

A/N: Hello again, friends! I'm not sure how often I'll be updating due to some deadlines at work, but I have a few more chapters outlined and wanted to get this one to you in the meantime. The next two chapters will be paired with the song Supernatural by Kesha from the Warrior album. You can find me on FanFiction.net and AO3 as sushigirlali as well. Enjoy!

Finding You - Part VIII By: sushigirlali

Baby when we're touching in the dark, can you feel it? I can hear the pounding of my heart, can you feel it? When you take my body to the stars, I believe it Boy this love is supernatural, can you feel it?

Rey held her breath as the Millennium Falcon made its final approach toward Naboo's planetary shield gate. She hoped that Lando's contact had come through, or else this trip was about to come to an abrupt end. Stationed behind the topside quad laser cannon, Rey could only look up into open space while she waited for news.

After what seemed like an eternity, she let out a relived sigh as Lando informed them that the massive gate was retracting, creating an opening big enough for their ships to pass through.

"We're heading in." Lando said over the headset. "Commander, protect our flank."

"On it, General." Poe answered.

"Rey, Ben, stay frosty." Lando instructed.

They responded in the affirmative, checking and rechecking their loadouts and scopes. If the Falcon were to be attacked, the quad laser cannons on the top and bottom of the ship would be their first line of defense.

"How does it look from your position?" Rey asked Ben through their bond.

"Visual is clear. I don't sense anything, either. How about you?" He replied.

"Nothing." She confirmed. "I know I shouldn't be looking for a disturbance in the Force, but…"

"We'll get her." Ben said reassuringly. "Let's just try to focus on one thing at a time."

"She almost killed you." Rey said angrily. "That makes her my top priority."

Ben chuckled. "I love you."

"I know." Rey said smugly.

They passed through the gate with little fanfare, and proceeded to the surface of Naboo. With nothing on the scope as they entered the atmosphere, it appeared that they had succeeded in slipping onto the planet undetected.

"We're clear to land, you guys can come down if you want." Lando encouraged.

Rey excitedly scrambled down the shaft leading back into the main interior of the Falcon, passing a bemused Ben on the way. She rushed into the cockpit, watching in amazement as the lush planet came into focus. Miles and miles of green grass and rolling hills covered in wildflowers stretched before her, and the majestic mountains were bisected by beautiful seas and lakes, all the same magnificent shade of sapphire.

"It's beautiful, isn't it?" Ben said, coming up behind her.

"The most magnificent planet I've ever seen." Rey said in awe. "Have you ever been here before?"

"Only in my dreams." Ben replied softly in her mind.

Before she could inquire about that mysterious statement, Lando turned to look at them.

"The Naberries have a family estate in a mountain village outside the capital city of Theed." Lando said, bringing them up to speed. "The village is a small, close-knit community, so we should be safe there."

"But I thought these people had money. Why keep a homestead in such an isolated place?" Finn asked, poking his head into the cockpit.

"When I last spoke to Pooja, she told me that the family had retained the property all these years in case the planet was ever occupied again, and they needed a place to hide." Leia explained.

"That makes sense." Ben said. "Although it's not widely known that my grandmother's family is related to the Skywalker line, it wouldn't be difficult to piece together."

"Exactly." Leia agreed. "Being associated with my birth father's name can be dangerous."

"That's why you never took the Skywalker surname." Ben realized for the first time. "Not because you were trying to hide my heritage from me, but because you were trying to protect me."

"Of course, sweetheart." Leia said gently. "We can talk about this more later, if you'd like. We're almost on the ground."

"Oh, uh, sure." Ben coughed, realizing that the entire team was listening to their personal conversation.

"It's okay, they understand." Rey said kindly. "Most of us would kill to know more about our families, if given the chance."

"I know." Ben said sadly, thinking of his friends. Rey and Finn and Rose had lost a lot, too.

"We'll be landing in a few minutes." Lando said smoothly, interrupting his thoughts. "You three head back to the lounge and buckle up. Keep your headsets on."

Rey, Ben, and Finn did as he asked, taking seats with Rose at the Dejarik table and strapping in. A short time later, Lando and Chewy put the Falcon down gracefully in a small clearing surrounded by massive trees on all sides. The canopy was so thick that the anyone passing overhead would have a hard time spotting the famous ship.

"All clear here. Poe?" Lando said.

"Clear." Poe responded. "No hostiles in sight."

"Alright, let's get off this hunk of junk and head to the estate. It'll be dark soon, and we have some ways to walk." Lando directed.

Come, take me by the hand Wanna cross the line, baby go ahead Till the morning light, watch my silhouette 'Cause you know tonight, we're gonna wake the dead

The Naberrie estate was beautiful, but modest for a family of such wealth and influence. The large manor house sat in the shadow of a verdant mountain, three stories tall with numerous arches fronting a wraparound porch. The façade was covered with large picture windows, embroidered with swirling wrought iron frames.

The terracotta colored walls were set against a dark brown barrel tile roof, which slanted over a second story balcony artfully covered in vines. A bubbling fountain sat in front of the house in the middle of a rectangular garden, surrounded by fruit trees and a colorful array of cultivated flowers.

Rey sighed blissfully, tightening her hand in Ben's to get his attention.

"It must have been lovely to grow up here." She said wistfully.

"I imagine so." Ben replied. "My mother and uncle should have been born here, but fate intervened. I wonder if my parents would've brought me here someday, if things had been…different."

"I'm sorry, Ben." Rey said apologetically. "I didn't mean to be insensitive."

"Not at all." He said warmly. "I just mean that Naboo would be a great place to raise a family."

Rey stopped walking and stared up at him, blushing.

"Do you really think so?" She said hopefully.

"I do." Ben said, smiling a little self-consciously.

Rey beamed up at him, her eyes glassy.

"Does he think what?" Lando asked from a few feet away.

"Nothing!" Rey and Ben said together in a high-pitched denial, turning back toward their amused compatriots.

"Doesn't look like nothing." Lando teased.

"We're having a private conversation." Ben said defensively. "It's none of your business!"

"But you barely said anything!" Lando shook his head. "I swear, it's like you two can read each other's minds sometimes."

"That's because they can read each other's minds." Finn informed him.

"Even across great distances!" Rose said cheerfully. "It's so romantic."

"And really annoying when you're trying to get them to pay attention during briefings." Poe added playfully.

"No kidding!" Lando laughed. "You Jedi are always full of surprises. How does—"

But Lando was interrupted as the enormous oak front door suddenly opened and a light-haired woman rushed out.

"Pooja!" Leia called happily as her cousin hurried to her with open arms.

"Leia!" Pooja Naberrie cried in return.

Lando winked at Rey and Ben as the women embraced, letting them off the hook for now, and moved to join the former senators to introduce himself. Finn, Rose, and Poe waited close by, still chuckling.

"When do you want to tell them?" Ben asked, taking her hand again as they walked toward his relatives.

"About our engagement, you mean?" Rey smiled sweetly at him. "As soon as you'd like."

"Today then?" Ben inquired, tensing.

Rey felt the change in him and looked up quizzically. "Did you think I wanted to hide it?"

"Well, it's been three days and you haven't told anyone, not even Finn, so I just thought…maybe you didn't want to yet?" Ben probed hesitantly.

"Ben." Rey said in exasperation. "I'm sorry I've been distracted, but of course I want to tell our friends. I want to tell everyone!"

Ben caressed her cheek, giving her a heart-stopping smile. "I love you."

"Well, in that case…!"

Rey stepped up next to Leia, dragging Ben along with her.

"Hi, I'm Rey!" She directed at Pooja. "And this is my fiancé, Ben."

"Ben? Leia's Ben? Ben Solo?" Pooja stuttered while Leia and Lando looked on in shock.

"One in the same." Rey confirmed, a little worried about the older woman's reaction.

But as Pooja's mouth split into a wide smile, Rey realized that everything was going to be okay.

"I'm so pleased to meet you both! I had heard that you were lost to us, Ben, like my aunt's husband once was. But look at you now! And with such a lovely fiancé!" Pooja grinned at Rey, who blushed under her intense scrutiny.

"Hold on!" Leia exclaimed, recovering her voice. She looked from her son to Rey and back again. "You're engaged?!"

"We are." Ben admitted. "I asked Rey a few days ago."

"I'm sorry that we didn't tell you sooner." Rey added ruefully. "And that I kind of just blurted it out."

"It's been a crazy couple of days." Ben defended his lady. "We were going to tell you today, anyway, but, well…"

"I jumped the gun." Rey flushed.

Leia burst out laughing as Ben and Rey continued to awkwardly explain themselves.

"Oh, who cares about any of that! Come here, you two!" Leia reached out, pulling Rey and Ben into a warm hug. "I'm so happy for you." She said sincerely.

"Thank you, mother." Ben murmured, holding tightly to the two most important people in his life.

"Thank you, Leia." Rey breathed. "I promise I'll take good care of him."

Leia pulled back, beaming. "You'll take good care of each other."

"You sure didn't waste any time, son." Lando joked as they broke apart. "Must be Han's influence!"

"I was the one who proposed to Han, I'll have you know." Leia said boasted. "As far as romantic gestures go, Ben clearly got that from me."

Rey burst out laughing, leaning against Ben's chest as he tried not to think about his parents being romantic.

"What's so funny?" Finn asked as he and the others joined the group.

"They're engaged." Lando pointed between Rey to Ben. "I'd say that qualifies."

"Engaged?!" Finn, Rose, and Poe all exclaimed.

Rey looked at Ben as their friends erupted in well wishes and an endless stream of playful insults.

"Well, you wanted them to know, didn't you?" Rey teased.

"Yeah, I guess I did. What was I thinking?" Ben laughed as Rey rolled her eyes at him. "Thanks for taking the lead when I was feeling insecure." He said more seriously.

"We're going to share a life together." Rey told him. "Your burdens are my burdens."

"Not too long ago I feared that my burdens would consume you, but I know now that they won't." Ben confessed. "You're too strong, and you make me stronger just by being with you."

"I love you." Rey said, touched by his words.

"I know." Ben smirked.

Rey hit him in the arm, still laughing as Pooja directed them inside the manor. As the big wooden doors closed behind them, Rey couldn't help but feel like this was a new beginning for all of them. She could see the faint outline of a future of hope and love and family. Of balance. And she would do everything within her power to obtain it.

Get a little bit wrong, get a little bit wild Get a little bit high off of this love tonight Get a little bit raw, come a little undone Get a little bit reckless, I can't get enough

Pooja led a tour of her ancestral home after everyone had calmed down from Rey and Ben's exciting news. The interior was just as lovely as the exterior, owing much to the bevy of windows stretching from one side of the home to the other.

In the main entertainment space, the natural light filtering inside added a soft glow to the deep amber walls, making the color seem almost molten. Yards of burgundy and gold silk curtains bordered every window, falling to the floor in graceful arrangements. The mahogany furniture was antique, but well kept, with clean lines and plush cushions in various shades of red.

Having never thought much about interior design back on Jakku, Rey was enchanted by the family's stylish aesthetic. Wondering away from the group, Rey inspected several small painted tables that littered the cream and tan marble floors. Not only where they beautiful works of art, but they held a number of fascinating trinkets and books that Rey itched to get her hands on.

"I still can't believe that you didn't tell me." Finn pouted, breaking into her musings.

"Honestly, I was too consumed with this mission, and Kali's escape, to think about it much." Rey said sheepishly.

"But aren't you excited?" Rose questioned quietly as she joined them, trying not to draw attention to their conversation.

"Ben is my soulmate." Rey said simply. "Being with him is like breathing. I do it because I have to in order to live. Sometimes I take it for granted that other people don't know how deeply we feel for each other."

"I'm still getting to know him, but it seems like Ben has turned a corner. Not just with you, but with the Resistance in general." Finn said, sounding impressed. "He seems like a completely different person now."

"Snoke really did a number on him, and Luke's mistake didn't help, but Ben knows that he's just as much to blame for his actions. I think that's motivating him to try harder, to really make connections with people." Rey said thoughtfully.

"I know it's not my place to ask this, but I care about you, and I only want what's best for you." Finn started hesitantly.

"What is it?" Rey asked curiously.

"You're still very young." Finn stated. "Do you really think it's wise to tie yourself to Ben before you've had a chance to spread your wings a little? Before Ben's rehabilitation is assured?"

"Finn, I appreciate where you're coming from, I really do. But, Ben and I are already married in my heart. We're intrinsically linked by the Force, on a spiritual level." Rey explained gently. "Ben and I are two parts of the same whole, and I couldn't separate myself from him now even if I wanted to."

Finn nodded in acceptance. "I thought it might be something like that. I don't fully understand your bond, but I'm here to support you."

Rey hugged him gratefully. "Thank you, Finn."

"Wow!" Rose exhaled as Rey stepped back. "I didn't realize how deep your connection went! It sounds amazing!"

"It is pretty great, most of the time." Rey said, eyeing Ben from across the room where he sat with Leia and Pooja. "Expect, of course, when your would-be husband is ease dropping."

"He can hear us?" Rose gasped.

"He can hear my thoughts, so he's getting my side of this conversation." Rey told her, sticking her tongue out at Ben.

Ben pretended not to notice, but his suppressed smirk gave him away.

"I know you're listening." Rey said in mock anger.

Ben looked over then, cupping his ear as if he couldn't hear her.

"Very funny." Rey said sarcastically.

Finn and Rose fell together, laughing at their antics, drawing the attention of their host.

"I do love hearing the sound of laughter in this old house again." Pooja smiled, standing up. "But now I think it's time to show you all to your rooms and get ready for dinner. I'm starving!"

Lando flushed as his stomach chose that moment to rumble loudly in agreement.

"Don't worry, General, I'll feed you up." Pooja flirted, pulling him along with her.

"Actually, Pooja, I'd like to introduce Rey and Ben to Ryoo before dinner, if you don't mind." Leia said to Pooja meaningfully. "Is she here?"

"For—oh!" Pooja caught on, looking between Ben and Rey. "Certainly! She had an appointment in the village a few hours ago, but she should be back in the clinic by now. It's on the first floor toward the back of the house."

"Yes, I remember passing it when we first arrived." Leia said.

"I'll show this lot to their rooms while you, ah, meet with Ryoo." Pooja said with a secret smile.

Rey and Ben looked at Leia and Pooja, then at each other.

"What was that all about?" Rey wondered.

"No idea." Ben replied. "But let's go find out."

Ben and Rey followed Leia out of the room, determined to figure out what was going on. She led them down one flight of stairs to the first floor before locating the entrance to Ryoo's clinic. Ben held the door open for Rey and Leia, who murmured their thanks as they passed.

A small dark-haired woman looked up from the datapad she was pouring over, her eyes lighting up with recognition.

"Leia! My goodness!" Ryoo jumped up, coming over to them.

"Hello, Ryoo." Leia smiled, hugging the shorter woman.

"When did you arrive?" Ryoo asked.

"Earlier this afternoon." Leia said.

"Oh! And here I've been puttering around in my lab!" Ryoo laughed. "I hope my little sister showed you all around? I had to see a patient today, she's due any moment, or else I would have been here earlier."

"No need to apologize, Pooja has been a good sport in your absence." Leia waved away. "This is my son, Ben, and his fiancé, Rey."

"Ben? Ben Solo?" Ryoo looked at him warily. "I thought you were…?" She trailed off questioningly.

"I was." Ben said steadily.

"But you're not now?" Ryoo queried.

"No." Ben replied bluntly.

"And why is that?"

"Because of her." Ben glanced down at Rey softly.

Ryoo studied them, as if working out a particularly difficult equation. "How you'd manage this miracle, young lady?"

"I love him." Rey said simply.

Ryoo laughed at Rey's straightforward explanation. "Yeah, that'll do it." Ryoo smiled gently, extending her hand. "It's nice to meet you both."

Rey felt Ben's wave of relief through their bond. She was glad that Ryoo and Pooja had accepted him so easily, but she supposed it helped that they had never know him personally while he was on the dark side.

"So, you're a doctor?" Rey asked, looking around the pristine clinic.

"Yes. An obstetrician, actually." Ryoo told her.

"A what?" Rey asked, never having heard the term.

"I specialize in pregnancy and childbirth." Ryoo informed her.

"Actually, Ryoo, that's why I wanted Rey and Ben to meet with you today." Leia started carefully. "Rey, I was wondering if you would be interested in having a blood test to see if you're…well…" Leia motioned toward her stomach.

Rey's eyes went wide at Leia's insinuation. "I'm not!" She squeaked, embarrassed.

"Not what?" Ben looked perplexed.

"Rey." Leia said in exasperation.

"I would know." Rey said with certainty.

"But wouldn't it be better to know for sure?"

"I do know for sure. My connection with the Force—"

"Is strong, I know. But I've been alive a lot longer than you've been communing with the Force, Rey. Nothing is foolproof." Leia said seriously.

"Okay, what are you two talking about?" Ben cut in.

"Your mother wants me to take a pregnancy test!" Rey said in a high-pitched voice.

"But she's not pregnant." Ben supplied at once, red-faced. "I would know."

Leia threw her hands up. "Well, you two just know everything then, don't you?!"

"Mother, it's not like that. We just—"

"You can't go around having unprotected sex and not expect there to be consequences. Your father and I—"

"Mother!"

"I'll do it." Rey interrupted, wanting to prevent a fight.

"You will?" Ben and Leia asked together.

"It would be better to know for sure." Rey repeated Leia's words.

Leia smiled at her. "Thank you, Rey."

"Would you like to be inoculated with a preventative measure as well?" Ryoo inquired, pulling on a pair of gloves. "It would last for about a year."

"Ben, what do you think?" Rey gripped his hand for support.

"I think you should do what you're comfortable with." He said supportively.

"I do want a family with you, someday." Rey smiled shyly, tugging his hand toward her middle.

"I want that too." Ben affirmed, kissing her reverently as he caressed her stomach.

"But not today." Leia broke in wryly.

Ben pulled back and looked his mother sheepishly. "No, not today."

"In that case, step into my office, Rey." Ryoo said, indicating a raised platform with a comfortable looking white neoprene chair sitting upon it.

Ryoo tied an elastic tourniquet around Rey's upper left arm, tapping a vein in the crook of her arm. Looking satisfied, the doctor picked up a cylindrical device from the tray next to the chair, moving forward to draw Rey's blood. Rey tensed as Ryoo pushed the device into her skin, but she didn't feel a thing.

"That's it?" Rey asked in surprise as Ryoo pulled back a few seconds later.

"That's it." Ryoo confirmed. "Not too bad, huh?"

Ryoo walked over to a large, complicated looking machine on the counter, tipping the vial inside. The data screen on the machine lit up within a few seconds, declaring that Rey was firmly not with child.

Despite themselves, Rey and Ben let out a collective breath, laughing as their eyes met.

"Now, there's just the matter of administering the birth control inoculation." Ryoo reminded her.

Ryoo rubbed a small amount of disinfectant on Rey's upper arm, then injected her with a bright green liquid. It tingled slightly afterword, but seemed harmless enough.

"Feel better now?" Rey teased Leia.

"Yes, I do." Leia said, relieved. "I'm not trying to run your lives, but take it from me, having a child during such political unrest is a dangerous proposition."

"I hadn't thought about it that way." Ben contemplated. "I guess it was hard for you to raise a child in the aftermath of the Empire's destruction?"

Leia smiled at her son. "Yes, but I never regretted it."

Ben smiled back. "Thanks, mom."

"Let's get back to the others, I'm sure dinner will be ready soon." Leia said. "Ryoo, can you show us the way?"

"Certainly." Ryoo beamed. "Let's eat!"

Come, take me in the night I feel it in my blood, want the darker side Baby when we touch, look me in the eyes Poison me with love, I'll bring you back to life

After dinner, Rey retired to the room she was sharing with Ben while he had a private conversation with his mother. The chamber was large and a little overwhelming in its opulence, but she was slowly getting used to her beautiful surroundings on Naboo. Life on the lush planet was definitely a far cry from the abject poverty of Jakku. Still, while growing up as a scavenger hadn't been easy, Rey was glad for the experience. The hardships she faced on the desert planet had prepared her well for her new life with the resistance.

Running a hand over the hunter green and silver comforter, she admired the finely woven brocade fabric. Her sleeping arrangements had never mattered much up until now, but Rey was looking forward to relaxing with Ben in such a luxurious atmosphere. Being alone with him had become her favorite part of the day.

The way he made her feel was beyond anything she'd ever experienced. Not just in a sexual way, although that was a huge factor, but in an emotional one. She had been alone for so long, but now she had someone to share her life with. Someone she could trust and depend on. Someone to love, and love her in return. The certainty she felt about their relationship was the greatest gift she had ever received.

Rey looked up when the door suddenly opened, beaming as Ben entered the room. He was so good to look at, especially now, as he shed his father's jacket, stretching the fabric of his shirt across his muscular chest enticingly.

"I'm sorry I took so long, but I had a few things to discuss with my mother." Ben said, apologetically.

Rey just smiled welcomingly and walked forward, meeting him in the middle of the room. Slipping her arms around his neck, Rey pulled his mouth to hers without further ado, kissing him thoroughly. Ben groaned against her lips, his arms contracting around her. They kissed for endless moments, just enjoying each other's company.

"I love you so much." Rey said when she pulled back, her eyes glassy.

Ben traced the path of a single tear as it slid down her cheek.

"You were listening?" Ben asked, crestfallen. "I wanted it to be a surprise."

"Listening to what?" Rey asked, perplexed.

"My mother and I. I asked her for—" Ben stopped as he registered her confused expression. "If you weren't listening, why are you crying? What's upset you?" Ben framed her face, pushing her hair back tenderly.

"I'm not upset." Rey reassured him. "Quite the contrary, actually. I was just thinking about you; about how much you mean to me."

Ben kissed her gently. "I love you, too."

"I know." Rey said impishly. "Now, what were you talking to your mother about?"

"Pooja gave her a trunk of my grandparent's old things." Ben murmured, taking a deep breath before kneeling in front of her. "I want to give you everything you've always wanted."

"Ben, we're already engaged." Rey said bemusedly.

"Yes, but last time, I didn't have a ring." Ben said softly.

Rey trembled as Ben produced a beautiful amethyst solitaire, surrounded by a row of diamonds on each side of the white gold band.

"My grandmother was never able to wear her wedding ring in public since she and my grandfather married in secret." Ben said solemnly. "I don't want that; I want to be with you in the light. This ring was meant to be a declaration of love, and now it will be."

Ben blurred in her vision as he slid the ring onto her finger. Sinking to her knees as well, Rey threw her arms around his neck, burying her face against his shirt with a muffled sob. Ben held her closely, running a comforting hand up and down her back.

The way he had put the proposal shattered her. After emulating Darth Vader for most of his life, Ben was finally able to see the man underneath. Although Anakin Skywalker had fallen to the dark side, and lost his family as a result, she knew that would not be Ben Solo's fate. Not if she had anything to say about it!

"There's something else I wanted to ask." Ben started hesitantly when she quieted.

Rey pulled back slightly, rubbing her red eyes. "What is it?"

"I would like for us to be married here on Naboo, among our friends and family." Ben requested.

"I would love to!" Rey exclaimed. "When the war is over—"

"No." Ben shook his head. "I don't want to wait, and that could take years. I want to be your husband, I want you to be my wife."

Rey softened at the yearning in his voice. "When?"

"Tomorrow, if I had my way." Ben chuckled.

"Ben, we've only been engaged for three days!" Rey laughed, hitting his shoulder playfully.

"But we're practically married, already, aren't we?" Ben grinned, recalling her words.

"You were listening to me talk to Finn and Rose!" Rey growled, pushing him down onto the soft carpet. "You little sneak!"

"How else am I supposed to figure out what you want?" Ben teased, circling her waist.

"You could ask." Rey chuckled. "I hear communication is important in marriage."

"Alright, then." Ben said seriously. "Will you marry me tomorrow?"

Rey smoothed her hands over his thick chest, smiling as he stretched toward her like a cat seeking attention. His heart was beating a mile a minute under her palms, causing her to pause. She could sense that he was scared she would reject him, even now, even after everything they had been through together; he didn't try to hide his fear from her. Smiling gently, Rey leaned down to kiss him, to sooth him.

"Yes." Rey whispered through their bond, repeating his vow. "I want to give you everything you've always wanted."

"That's easy." He responded. "All I've ever wanted is you."

A/N: FYI I've been posting mini fics, inspired by some truly gifted Reylo artists, exclusively on my Tumblr blog over the past few weeks. It's the only thing keeping me sane while my work schedule is so crazy! Check um out! Until next time!

A little something extra!

Ali: *Playing with Rey and Kylo Funko Pops* Kylo: What…what are you doing? Ali: Rey and Kylo are having a serious political discussion about fascism and the role of Force-sensitives in government. Kylo: *Rubbing his temples* What? Ali: After defeating the Knights of Ren, Rey and Kylo form a new religious order, merging the Jedi and Sith back into one organization, bringing balance to the Force. Kylo: That sounds nice and all, but how will that work in the long run? Anyone can be corrupted. Ali: By having weekly personal and group therapy sessions to talk about their feelings, schooling in politics, history, and other religions, and regular contact with their families. Oh, and sexual freedom. That too. Kylo: *Looking intrigued* And then? Ali: And then they'll fuck and everyone will be happy. Kylo: Whoomp there it is.

#reylo #reylo fanfic #reylo fic #rey #kylo ren #ben solo #leia organa #finn #poe dameron #rose tico #lando calrissian #my fanfiction #sushigirlali #finding you

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kulaykape · 5 years ago

Text

Chap. 2 of CONTRACT KILLER: OC x Natasha Romanoff

Chap. 2 of this mess. Ofc I didn’t proof read.

Word Count: 2852

Summary: One week after Jean returns home from assassinating James Wagner. Nothing particularly important happens in this chapter, only serving to slowly build the dynamic of her household.

---Holiday Household---

INDIGO STRIKES AGAIN. JAMES WAGNER ASSASSINATED.

"Quite the headline, anak," Grandma Harper said as she watched the reporter on the national news detail the events.

"Eh," I called from the kitchen, more concerned with how the hell I was supposed to tell if the spam was cooked well enough or not, "Nothing special."

"If it was nothing special, you wouldn't have come back with so many bruises," Grandma replied as she walked into the kitchen and tapped the stitches on my brow. "Black Widow?"

I nodded and pursed my lips. "Black Widow." Somehow, the SHIELD Agent had become a household name in a household of people who worked against her.

Grandma clicked her tongue, shaking her head. "When you're not using deadly force, you're far too less efficient. You need to figure that out," she said.

I scoffed. "I was about to use deadly force," I replied.

"Why?"

"She almost had me," I said as I checked the underside of one of the spam slices. "Is that cooked, mama?" I asked dumbly, doing a double take between grandma and the food.

Grandma Harper rolled her eyes. "World's Greatest Mercenary can't tell when spam is cooked," she echoed.

"World's Greatest Mercenary is the reason you're living large, grandma," I said with a grin. Grandma Harper threw her head back and laughed. She'd been a horse breeder (among other things) back in her day. It might've been a lucrative business in 1910, but I don't know how well she'd fare now.

Of course, she’d had other means of attracting income. Not too unlike my own.

"It's only a matter of time before they send their big guns after you, Jean."

"Yeahhh…" I drawled, "Nothing that I can't handle. I'm surprised they haven't gotten the message by now, though. I don't kill good people."

Wagner had been a rapist. My target preceding Wagner was a genocidal terrorist. And the man before that had been one of my worst targets yet. A popular singer and actor. I'd found child pornography in his living room, and a ten year-old boy in his bed.

And somehow, the deaths of all those monsters had turned me into public enemy number one.

Grandma Harper sighed as she took a seat at the dinner table. She looked more tired than usual, her eyes looking 123 years old even if the rest of her only looked about forty.

"My day was simpler. The law was more lenient, more understanding," she said, "But at the same time, ruthless. I think you would've done better in my time, anak."

I laughed mirthlessly as I stacked the spam up on a plate next to the eggs. Grandma Harper was actually my great grandma, a woman who was born and thrived as an outlaw near the turn of the century. I hadn't seen her in a real fight during my insignificant life span, but the look in her eye hadn't seemed to dull.

"Kids! AJ! Isiah! Food's ready!" I called, picking up the pan and hitting a metal spoon against its underside. Grandma Harper sent me a sour look, and I put it down.

Like the stampede from Lion King, AJ and Isiah’s three kids came crashing into the kitchen. They came in with so much heat that they would've slid to their doom and hit their heads on the corner of the table if Grandma didn't stop them.

"Careful, you three," she said sternly.

Reggie, the oldest at seven years, apologized sheepishly. "Sorry, grandma," he said, and with a kiss on her cheek was back in her good graces. His little siblings followed his lead to sit at the table, where I had to help four year-old Jenny sit down properly, and quickly stopped five year-old Katie from stabbing herself with a butter knife.

AJ and Ian streamed in after them, talking quietly and critically.

"You guys alright?" I asked, turning one of the table seats backwards and settling into it.

AJ looked at me with a tired smile, not even bothering to hide her conflictions. "Yeah. It’s just been a rough week, what with all that,” she replied, gesturing to the tv screen. Katie extended her stubby hands towards the tv remote. I pointed towards the window to distract her, and then hid the remote.

“Auntie J, that’s you!” Reggie exclaimed, pointing at the screen as the name of my dual identity and my masked figure crossed over the screen.

I shot Reggie a crooked smile. “Dang right it is.”

“Language,” Grandma shook a fork at me.

“I said dang!”

“Language.”

I conceded, raising my hands in defeat and then looked at the couple still standing in the doorway. “Would you two sit down?” I said with slight exasperation, “I didn’t cook for you to just look at the food.”

“I wouldn’t call frying spam cooking, J,” Isiah said as he took a seat and started piling up his plate. AJ rolled her eyes as she followed suit. To her, this little bickering feud between Isiah and me was about ten years too old.

“But you’re eating it, aren’t you, you walnut?” I retorted. Isiah shot me the “touche” nod, and went about chowing down.

“You just cashed in a million dollar check, and we’re eating spam,” AJ said with a grin.

“Broke people act rich, rich people act broke,” I said waving my own fork at her, “I swear, you two are just gonna eat the grease off the pan next time.” A ripple of laughter sounded through the table. Jenny and Katie laughed along for the hell of it.

“A million dollars, auntie?” Reggie said wistfully, looking at me with his mouth wide open and showing off his munched up spam and rice. Isiah shook his head, and pushed up the boy’s chin with the end of his fork.

“Yeah,” I replied. Grandma Harper sent me a look, and I nodded. “Uh... You know how much doctors make, though?”

“How much?” Reggie asked.

Way less, I thought. “Three million,” I said. AJ hit her head against the table as she watched me resort to lying to cover my ass. Isiah looked at me, cheeks puffed out like a chipmunk with his food, and just stared at me blankly. Grandma Harper sighed, and got up to find her pills.

Reggie shrugged. “But your job’s cooler. And you’re still making, like, a million dollars!” He exclaimed.

I sputtered for a moment, and would’ve been done for because of it if Reggie was a little older. “Yeah, but don’t you wanna save lives like a doctor?”

“You save lives,” he fired back.

“Eh…” I cringed a bit at that, “I don’t exactly-”

“And you get to have guns!”

“Hold on-”

“And you didn’t have to go to college.”

“Kid-”

“But daddy told me you ‘officially started when you were twelve’. Is that true?”

I kicked Reggie’s mother in the shins, jolting her from her stupor as her son's questions evolved horribly. Help, I mouthed.

AJ cleared her throat, and put her best mom’s voice on. “Junior, finish your food, okay?” She said, “Then you and dad can play Street Fighter until nine.”

Reggie gawked, forgetting all about his blossoming ambitions to be a mercenary. “Until nine?”

“Finish your food first.” “Yes ma’am.” I don’t know why he emphasized “ma’am” like that, but I thought it was funny as hell and guffawed loudly, while simultaneously slumping over at dodging a (metaphorical) bullet.

---

“I can’t believe you told the kid about how I first killed somebody,” I growled in a hushed tone at Isiah, just barely kept from ripping his head off by the grace of god and AJ’s occasional tentative hand on my shoulder.

“It flew right over his head, don’t worry,” Isiah said flippantly, more focused on trying to get Ken to do a Hadouken without it being on accident.

“That’s not the point, you perpetual loser,” I said quietly. The kids were still gathered around on the carpet, which I laid haphazardly on as I stared up at Isiah with vengeance in my eyes. I would save the more colorful insults for when they all went to bed.

“Dad, stop cheating!” Reggie yelled as Isiah moved to casually stand in front of Reggie and obscure his view of the screen as they played against each other.

“Your children will grow up to hate you, Isiah Bradley,” I called from the carpet. Isiah raised his foot up, threatening to step on me. I scoffed. “I wish you would, Isiah. I wish you would.”

“So,” AJ said, sitting down next to me on the carpet as she attempted to avert my murderous gaze from her husband, “You went toe-to-toe with Agent Romanoff again?” I heard Grandma let out a faraway snort from the kitchen.

I sat up and subconsciously put a hand to the stitches on my brow. “Yeah. It dragged on a little longer than I originally planned,” I said. Then again, it was hard to plan ahead when faced with the Black Widow.

“You need to get control over all your powers,” AJ advised, and I nodded, “You’d be Iron Man-level with them.” I scoffed. “What, am I not Iron Man-level without all the pyromania?” I asked. Sure, Black Widow might’ve nearly executed me by way of thigh, but I’d still won.

“Don’t know. I mean, are you completely confident you can take a guy like that down when it comes to it?” She replied, “Because it will. Once SHIELD gets tired of this game of cat and mouse.”

And I was honestly surprised they hadn’t played one of their enigmatic little trump cards yet, seeing as we were three years into this little “game”. They could call upon Iron Man, War Machine, Black Widow, and even throw in Hawkeye, just for shits, if they wanted to. And I’d be a long since resolved problem.

I gazed down at my own hands. They were slender and heavily scarred, but I’d covered up the flaws with tattoos. And within them was a power kept locked away in slumber, a power that, to be blunt, would turn me from a pesky mercenary to a worldwide threat. But it’d been sleeping in my family’s blood since Grandma Harper, so it was something even she couldn’t explain to me.

“I mean, you remember that time you activated your powers on accident though, right?” AJ asked, recalling that one spar almost five years ago.

Isiah had said something that pissed me off- big surprise there- during a spar, and I’d gone in for perhaps the angriest and most uncoordinated punch of my life. Flames had been born from my knuckles, licking at the back of my hand and then shooting forward at Isiah like something out of Avatar. The flames looked as if they were truly alive, and as angry as me at Isiah as they tried to consume him. But they died the moment I panicked at their birth, fearing what permanent damage they’d do to Isiah. And, unfortunately, he lived on.

“I doubt it’ll ever happen again,” I said. Since then, I hadn’t felt that dangerous heat rising in my palms. And I’d never tell any of my friends or even Grandma Harper, but it was the greatest feeling in the world. That power was beautiful. So beautiful, so enticing, in fact, that I couldn’t help but fear it. Just a little.

Isiah chuckled. “Can’t wait to watch your kids figure it out, then,” he quipped, as Ryu- controlled by Reggie- Ultra Hadkouken’d his Ken into oblivion.

“I thought we already went over this,” I replied with a chuckle, “I’m not popping any babies out.”

“Good. Imagine the power of those little devils,” he said with a snicker.

AJ gave him a warning look. “Isiah.”

“Honey, you don’t understand,” Isiah insisted, shaking his head, “The power that was radiating off of this kid for that split second?” He shivered dramatically, “If I’m being honest, it might be that kind of thing that’s better left never discovered.”

“Even though I would’ve done us all a huge favor if I’d just made you a crispy chicken nugget,” I muttered under my breath. Isiah rolled his eyes, while AJ shook her head with a smile.

“...”

“...Back to the popping babies thing, though,” AJ said.

“Oh, heck no.” I started to stand up.

“You’re young! A young bachelor! With money!” AJ made sure to emphasize the money factor heavily, making an emphatic ‘make it rain’ gesture.

“No,” I said, marching up the stairs to the guest room that I stayed in whenever I was here, while Isiah yelled something about me having to play against him. To my chagrin, AJ followed me. “Go to your family, heathen,” I spat over my shoulder.

“But you are family, kid,” she replied, throwing an arm over my shoulder as she rapidly switched into her Isiah-like persona, which only came out when we started to talk about relationships. Her reply would’ve warmed my heart if the conversation topic itself wasn’t revolting.

“No.” I rushed into the guest room and tried to close it behind me before AJ could slip in, but slip in she did.

“But yes,” she replied as she sat down at my desk, “C’mon Jean, you’re twenty-two! At least try and have a little fun more often.” I cringed, as I knew exactly what AJ’s idea of ‘fun’ was. Clubbing, house parties, and (before Isiah) plenty of unadulterated sex. She’d settled down from all of that since marrying that walnut, but she’d take some time to herself every now and then, and her ventures usually involved dragging me with her.

“I have plenty of fun,” I replied sourly as I collapsed on my bed, ruining the perfect lines of Grandma Harper’s work to keep it tidy.

“You haven’t changed one bit since you were a kid, you know that?” She said, “You still find pianos and books more attractive than actual people.”

“I find people attractive, Aliyah Jackman,” I retorted, sitting up, “I just don’t act on it. Leave me alone.”

There was a beat of silence. And I knew it was coming.

“...I know for a fact that you were hitting on Black Widow while you guys fought.” I tried to keep a smirk down. “So what if I was?”

AJ let out a howl of laughter. “Be careful with that one, Jean Holiday.”

“Nothing about our lives involves the word ‘careful’,” I replied.

“True. But I gotta tell you, if I liked women, I’d like Black Widow too,” she quipped.

“...You know, I can’t help but be a little jealous of her.”

“How so?”

I let out a sigh, rubbing my forehead. I was too young to constantly be feeling this old. “Remember those corrupted SHIELD files you and Isiah found?” I asked.

“Yeah… You found some dirt on her, didn’t you?”

“Yeah. She wasn’t much better than us at one point. If not worse,” I replied, “How come she gets a second chance? And we continue to be prey?”

“It’s not like any of us are seeking redemption.” And I couldn’t disagree with that.

I let out a sigh. “From what that file said, it seemed like Clint Barton took a chance on her. Likely that she wasn’t looking for redemption either. It just fell in her lap.”

“Look, you’ve got no reason to be jealous of her, kid,” AJ said. I looked up at her, furrowing my brow curiously. “It’s not like you don’t have your own chance. If you want to leave this behind, nobody’s gonna stop you.”

That weight settled back in my stomach. That weight that should’ve been carried by someone much older, much sadder. “It’s not that simple,” I muttered.

AJ scoffed, and I heard the chair creak as she stood up. “Look, you don’t need me to tell you that we’re not exactly good people. The only one making it ‘not that simple’ is you, Jean,” she said, “You have a choice. Don’t act like you don’t.” And with that, she left. I flopped down on my bed.

It was an odd relationship I had with AJ, Isiah, and Grandma Harper. They willingly conditioned me to take on this life, and yet it seemed like they always wanted me to follow the other path at the crossroad.

But Grandma Harper had been an outlaw, an idea I’d never romanticized. I knew she did nasty things, probably killed good people (although I’d never ask). Then after her, Grandpa Josiah had gone on an angry tirade for reasons I still didn’t know, rebelling against the law until it killed him. And after him, my mom… Emery Holiday. I think she might’ve tried to be good. She joined the military, flew in the name of the US. But somewhere along the way, I guess the curse of our family’s selfishness and corruption caught up to her. Again, I didn’t really know, too cowardly to ask.

If that was all they ever were, how could I be any different? What right did I have to be any different?

And if we put that all aside, what hope did I have to be any different?

#natasha romanoff x oc #natasha romanoff #black widow #marvel #fanfic #marvel x oc

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