#[I have today and tomorrow to get used to mom going back to work apparently. So... Yeah let's see what I can do.]

[thehandworld]

No, I refuse. He is not going to do Gokudera Hayato work again.

[starkwlkr]

omg can you write charles reaction to baby leclerc first kindergarten boyfriend and how jealous he would be 🥹🥹

no boys allowed | charles leclerc

in honor of my birthday, here’s one more baby leclerc fic <3

Ruby woke up ten minutes earlier than she should’ve. It was a new school day and she was more excited than ever. While her mom slept peacefully, Ruby was in her bathroom trying to untangle her hair, but each time she would end up with a knot in it. She gave up and ran to her mom and dad’s room with a brush stuck in her hair.

“Mama, I need help. Mama, wake up.” Ruby poked Y/n’s cheek repeatedly until her eyes fluttered open.

“Baby, what? What’s wrong?” Y/n rubbed her tired eyes. She then saw the mess on Ruby’s head. “Oh, baby girl.”

Y/n was alone with the kids since Charles was coming back from Italy for his home race. Mathéo slept in his nursery. Y/n got out of bed and took Ruby to her bathroom to fix the tangled hair.

“Why did you do this, Ruby?” The mother asked.

“Because I want to look pretty for my boyfriend!”

Y/n choked on her own saliva when she heard Ruby mention the word ‘boyfriend’. “When did this happen, Rubes? Does papa know?”

Of course Charles didn’t know. If he did, he would immediately change Ruby to a different school. Even if it was a pretend boyfriend, Ruby was still too young to be thinking about boys in his eyes. Thank god Charles wasn’t home.

“Yesterday he told me he loves me. Papa doesn’t know . . Yet! Can I tell him?” Ruby jumped up and down, eager to tell her papa about her love life.

“Not right now, baby. He’s working. But you can tell me all about him. What’s his name?” Y/n asked as she continued to brush through Ruby’s hair.

“His name is Ben and we’re getting married! Can you be my flower girl, mama? And uncle arthur can give us a ring.” Ruby said. “I want uncle pierre and kika to be at my wedding. I love Kika.”

Y/n chuckled. Ruby reminded Y/n of a younger version of herself, planning out her dream wedding, not having a single stressful moment. Y/n wished her Ruby would stay little forever.

“Okay, all done. Go get dressed, I have to get your brother ready.” Y/n pressed a kiss to the top of Ruby’s head and watched as the little girl ran off to her room. Before Y/n walked to Mathéo’s nursery, she grabbed her phone and texted Charles.

Y/n

Good morning my love. I’m going to take Ruby to school and when you get home, I have news to tell you. It’s important.

Charles

Good morning mon amour❤️ tell Ruby I love her and I miss her. Are you not going to give me a hint? I can’t wait that long

Y/n

Well it’s about our daughter. That’s all I’m telling you.

Charles

You’re an evil woman

I love you ❤️

Y/n

Love you more 🥰

She left her phone on her nightstand and walked to Mathéo’s room where he was not laying awake staring at the ceiling. “Good morning my little boy. Let’s get you ready for the day.”

After both kids were dressed, the Leclerc family was on their way to school. Ruby kept telling her mother about Ben and how good he was at drawing, counting from 1 to 100 and apparently he knew about f1 because of his dad. The school wasn’t that far away from their home so they walked.

“When is papa coming home?” Ruby asked.

“He should be here tomorrow or maybe even today.” Replied Y/n. Mathéo squealed from his spot in his stroller. “You’re exiting to see papa, Théo? He misses you too.”

“I can tell him about Ben! Can Ben come to the race with us? Please mama!” Ruby stopped walking to face her mother.

“I don’t know, Ruby. We have to talk to his parents first.”

When Ruby got to school, she refused to set foot into the classroom until Ben arrived. Five minutes later, a little boy with a Ferrari cap on ran towards Ruby and hugged her.

“Ben! Don’t run! You’ve tripped enough already!” A woman about Y/n’s age scolded the boy.

“Mama! He’s Ben, my boyfriend!” Ruby yelled as Ben put his arm around her shoulder.

“Nice to meet you Ben. I’m Ruby’s mom.” Y/n said to the little boy.

“So I guess we’re in laws?” Ben’s mom laughed. “I’m Clara, Ben’s mom. I’ve heard so many things about your little girl. Were you invited to their ‘wedding’?” Clara asked.

Y/n nodded. “You’re looking at the flower girl.” She joked.

“I’m jealous, Ben told me I have to pay for the whole thing!”

After school, Pascale, Lorenzo and Arthur would always arrive at Y/n and Charles’ house just to spend time together. Ruby absolutely loved it. This time, Charles joined since he had taken an early flight from Italy so when he got home, he found Ruby and Arthur doing some crafts on the kitchen table while Pascale, Y/n and Lorenzo were with Baby Mathéo in the living room.

“Papa!” Ruby threw her crayon on the table and ran to Charles.

Charles let his suitcase fall to the ground. He wrapped his arms around Ruby and picked her up, spinning her a couple time as she laughed. “You didn’t cause any trouble, did you?” He kissed her cheek.

“No! I’m a very good girl. Ask mama and Théo!” Ruby giggled.

“Okay, I’ll ask them right now.” Charles set her down and turned his attention to the rest of his family. “How was my boy while I was gone? Was Ruby good?” He sat next to Y/n on the sofa.

“He didn’t cry at night often, but he did miss his papa a lot.” Y/n passed the baby to Charles. “And yes, she was an angel.”

“Just him and Ruby missed me?” Charles teased.

“I missed you!” Arthur spoke from the kitchen table.

“Anyone else missed me? Anybody?” Charles looked around, ignoring Arthur. “I’m kidding, I missed all of you.”

“Oh! The news! Ruby, want to tell papa now?” Y/n prepared herself for Charles’ reaction. Everyone did.

“What news, Ruby?”

“I have a boyfriend!”

“Mon amour, grab Théo please.”

Y/n took the baby from Charles’ arms and watched his confused face.

“Baby, you can’t have a boyfriend.” Charles said to Ruby. “You’re too young and he is too.”

“But I already made him a card! Uncle Arthur is helping me!” Ruby pointed at Arthur, who immediately dropped the marker from his hands and froze.

“Arthur! Why are you helping my daughter make a card for a boy?!”

“She didn’t tell me it was for her boyfriend.” Arthur defended himself.

“Yes I did. I said ‘uncle arthur can you help me make a card for my boyfriend?’ and you said yes.” Ruby innocently said.

“I thought she was joking.”

Charles shook his head. He knew it wasn’t a real relationship but he still didn’t like the idea of his little girl already thinking about boys and relationships.

“And you haven’t even heard the best part yet. They’re getting married.” Lorenzo added followed by a loud laugh.

“No one is getting married!” Charles announced.

“So you and mama aren’t getting married?” Ruby asked.

“We are married, baby.” Y/n said confused.

“But Ben’s parents got married two times. He told me.”

“So his name is Ben. Where does he live?” Charles asked and before Ruby could answer, Pascale hit his arm. “Maman! This Ben can’t date my daughter!”

“They’re kids, Charles.” Pascale said, bringing in her granddaughter for a hug.

“You’re telling me you’ve never had a girlfriend when you were a little kid?” Y/n asked Charles. Not that he could remember, no he never did that.

“And you had a boyfriend when you were little?” Charles rolled his eyes, and watched Y/n stay silent. “No, someone was your boyfriend before me?!”

“This isn’t about me, now excuse me I have to practice my flower girl skills before the big wedding.”

[obeymeshallwedateaddict]

Can I request some headcaons for the brothers nagging MC yo set up a meeting with their and MC just being like “Okay…but my family isn’t your average traditional family so heads up 🤷‍♀️.” And when they finally do realize MC and their mom are exactly the same. Even down to the point where their mother has her own little harem going on. If this is too weird for you then you don’t have to do it lol. 🫶

I have one thing to say..

Do we love weird? YES

Do we want weird? YES

Do we get weird? YES, OF COURSE >;D

Summary: The brother's reactions to MC and their mother being so similar to the point where both of them have their own male harems.

GN!MC

You can find more of my work here: Masterlist

The apple doesn't fall far away from the tree

It was a regular day in a not so normal Devildom. You were sitting at the dining table with the seven brothers eating breakfast. You were too focused on your food to look at the others.

Mammon: Yo MC! We've been thinkin'.. what's your family like?

The question caught you off guard and you shot the second-born an "Are you serious?" look before shaking your head.

MC: A family. Haven't you seen a family?

You got back at your food.

Asmo: Could we peerrhaaps meet them?

MC: No.

A few hours later you are in the hallway at RAD, leaning against a wall, wondering what your next class was. Suddenly though the twins show up with smirks on their faces.

Belphie: MC? Whatcha up to?

MC: Doeeessss it concern you?

Beel: Yes.

You shake your head before sighing.

MC: Do you know what my next class is? I forgot.

Belphie: we'll tell you if you let us meet your family.

Oh come onnnnn!!! Couldn't you be more oRiGiNaL?! You roll your eyes and push your body away from the wall.

MC: Y'know... I suddenly remembered what my next class was. I'll see you around, boys!

After school you are walking home with Satan. A regular walk? Perhaps not.

Satan: MC? You know.. we do want to meet your family.

MC: Not happening.

You smile at Satan dramatically and continue walking in silence.

At midnight. You were in Levi's room to play games. Though the thing was.. Levi chose a family simulator game? Why?

Levi: I thought we could play something else today.

MC: Sure I don't mind. Though why a family simulator?

Levi: B'cuz.. eh.. I want to meet your family? So I'm trying to simulate it?

MC: Levi you don't make sense. Plus I'm tired. Let's play tomorrow.

You leave the room with the biggest frown on your face.

The next morning at The House of Lamentation! It's nice. It's peaceful. Breakfast is tasty. Until a certain Father figure, I mean... oldest brother decides to open his mouth.

Lucifer: MC, we've decided. We want to meet your family.

MC: Stop nagging and leave me alone. This has been going for too long.

Lucifer: I wasn't asking, MC. This is a demand.

You look over at Lucifer with the most idiotic, dumbest face you could pull up. Really? You too?

MC: Okay. Buuuttt.. my family ain't your regular family.. sooo heads up, guys. I'll call them tomorrow. You better be ready for this.

Mammon: Eh? Why?

Asmo: Hmm.~

(Lucifer staring into your soul)

The next day. The seven brothers are lined up in the hall wearing a bit more formal-ish clothes rather than their regular ones. Confident about meeting your family. Soon enough Lucifer teleports you to the human world right in front of your house. You walk up to the door and violently pull it open.

MC: MOOOMMMMM MY HAREM'S 'ERE. COME MEET EM!!!!

You can practically feel a few of the demons gazes burn a hole through your back but... Do you care?

Your mother came out looking similar to you. Too similar.

Mammon: MC that your twin or somethin'?

MC: Eh twin? I ain't got a twin. This is my mother, guys!

You turn to your mom.

MC: Mom, those men are my boyfriends and part of my harem.

Father and son AKA Lucifer and Satan don't particularly like the word 'harem' apparently.

Lucifer: MC..

Satan: MC...

Mother: Oh my gosh, sweetheart! Like mother like daughter!

She wraps her arms tightly around you.

Mammon, Satan, Belphie: Wait what?

Mother: MC they are so handsome! I'm so proud of you, honey! Personally though I like that one the most. (She points at Lucifer who IMMEDIATELY how do I highlight this more? gets all smug about it.) What's his name?

MC: *turning to look over at where her mom's finger is pointing and nod*

Oh, that one? Ah yes. That's Lucifer, mom. He's nice.

Lucifer: Just nice? And what do you mean "that one" don't you have more respect?

Satan: Yeah it's too kind for you. You are awful. AND you deserve NO respect.

Belphie: Totally agree.

Mammon: Couldn't you choose a better one rather than that asshole? (I don't feel like Mammon's gonna make it)

Lucifer: MAAAMMMOOOONNNN?? (R.I.P Mammon. We loved you.)

Mammon: EEEEEK!!!

Completely innocent Beel looks over at you completely ignoring the banter between Lucifer and his three biggest headaches.

Beel: MC what did your mother mean by 'like mother like daughter'

You look over at the sixth-born and smile.

MC: oh right. Forgot to mention. She also has a harem! Of seven as well I think? *You look over at your mother, waiting for confirmation.

Mother: *Nods head.*

All brothers: WHAT?

Asmo: Can I meet them~

Belphie: Asmo, stop being perverted for a second.

Levi: For real. This is serious.

(Mammon being confused along with our cinnamon roll Beel)

(Lucifer staring dead into your eyes)

(Satan being ready to throw a tantrum)

MC: They have cats. Each of them. A few at that.

(Satan is suddenly very interested and happy.)

Mother: They are such great cooks. Each of them!

Beel: WHERE?

(Belphie putting a hand over Beel's mouth.)

MC: They are rich.

Mammon: Y'know... I suddenly don't mind the fact that you called us your harem and stuff.. could I meet 'em?

(Lucifer angrily steps on Mammon's foot. Repeatedly.)

Mammon: AUGHHHHHHH LUCIFER STOP STEPPING ON MY FREAKIN' FOOT. I DON'T WANNA MEET 'EM ANYMORE!

Lucifer smiles gently. Perhaps more sadistically. (But he sure ain't gentle right now) at your mother before turning to you with a loving gaze (He certainly doesn't want to punish you. Noooo~)

Lucifer: MC we are going home. We are happy that we got to meet your family. We are leaving.

The eldest grabs your hand and before you could say goodbye to your mother you find yourself in The House of Lamentation's entrance hall once again. Let's just say it was a fun night. Lucifer punished~ you. (We know what he did. Right?) Saying he is the only one for you. (Likewise :] ) The rest of the brothers barely talk to you during the rest of the week. Don't worry though. Soon enough all of them remind you that you belong to each of them alone. (As if) And soon enough stuff is left and forgotten.

Everything ends well when everything's well.. right? <3

[mins-fins]

★̲ YOU HAVE ONE NEW VOICEMAIL FROM . . . 나재민 !

SEPTEMBER 9, 00:22 AM

HI BABY!! okay um before you purge me and murder my entire family i'm sorry for not calling you yesterday.. it was after the first show and i was exhausted but anyway, how was the concert? did you enjoy it? do you think i did well? do you—[a small shout is heard from behind him] I AM NOT "WHIPPED" SHUT UP! ignore chenle he doesn't know what he's talking about, is it bad that i love my dear partner so much? he's just sad and lonely—AM NOT!— ARE TOO! STOP YELLING AT ME!! you're gonna come tomorrow right? if work doesn't keep you in that is, god i hate your job, and i miss you, i miss you so bad, it's going to be hard to do this when international tour dates start, all we have connecting us is some stupid phone..[another shout is heard from behind him] OKAY FINE! it's too late, we have to wake up early tomorrow, alright bye i love you! sleep well!

NOVEMBER 23, 22:45 PM

haechan totally tried to trip me on stage today, that little shit..anyway, hi baby!! sorry for the like— two calls every week but it's been so hard to find alone time for myself these days, i really like japan though, we should come here sometime for a trip! just me and you, maybe on one of my breaks, if i can even get one. i miss you, having jeno as company is beginning to get boring, i mean, i love jeno obviously but i see him every single day!! i'm literally about to go insane without you here, i'm about to pay for your flight here and make up some excuse to your manager about a family issue or something.. will they even believe that? i don't care, it's been a while since we went anywhere together, just the two of us, also, did i tell you your mom called me? apparently she really liked our performance, she called me to tell me about it!! anyway um, i have no time left, hope you have a good night, i love you!!

NOVEMBER 26, 02:09 AM

jeno snores way too loudly, so no sleep for me, and he also complains so much about everything so now i have to whisper for this, but anyway, i know you're probably asleep as well so it doesn't matter if i send this cause you'll see it in the morning but i don't care! whoops, right, whispering. i can't believe that you can't come to the shows, it's all sooooo boring without you. i always search for you in the audience but then i don't see you and i get upset, you being in the crowd would make everything much better, hopefully you can at find time to get here before the final japanese show this year.. is this corny? i don't think so, i just— i miss you, i say that all the time but i do, a lot. um yeah that's all, i should probably sleep now, i love you!

DECEMBER 2, 21:37 PM

I KNEW YOU HAD SOME STUPID PLAN! i can't believe i didn't even notice you sneaking up on me that was….. i can't start, i'll go on and on forever. how did you even get backstage? did you talk to mark or something? i don't know i guess i'm just— i'm just very surprised, you didn't even tell me anything! i'm not going to lie.. it was such a smart plan, i'm glad you were able to make it, seeing you again was so nice i almost cried having to let go of you, and yeah i tried to contain myself in front of the members but i couldn't, they had to get it though! because when you're partner is right there you can't just stand there and be normal, i did mean to trap you in that hug! god being able to wrap my arms around you again was so nice, you give such good hugs you know? i know you won't be here for long but let's make the most of our time together okay? i'm happy you're here, alright i have to go now, good night, i love you.

DECEMBER 10, 09:30 AM

hi hi!! happy to say that i will be back soon! don't be surprised if i just randomly show up in your house one day, world famous idol na jaemin in your kitchen, making himself some coffee, you might have a heart attack, i hope i don't scare you again, not like that one time after hot sauce promotions ended.. your face was hilarious, i'm sorry for that one baby, i was really just trying to surprise you.. anyway, tour picks back up in february, so we have time to be idiots and go on stupid dates, get chased down by the staff.. okay maybe not that, the last time they almost caught us was funny though. alright um— just wanted to tell you i'll be back soon! i'll make sure to pass by a convenience store and get you ice cream, and yes i'll remember to get cookie dough this time, still not sure what you have against strawberry..alright that's it! i'll see you soon, i love you!!

[mj-iza-writer]

It was late in the night as Whumpee struggled down their last mile of road.

They were soaked as they rounded the corner to the subdivision. The cold rain hadn't let up once.

"Please be home", they pleaded as they walked up the driveway. Their body gave, and they collapsed into a puddle halfway up the drive.

Gentle hands embraced them within seconds.

"What are you doing out here?", a whisper mumbled as they were carried into the house.

"I'm sorry I have to do this", a gentle voice sighed as they pulled off the soaked clothing, "you are dangerously close to getting sick."

"Caretaker I", Whumpee whispered.

"Shh, let's get you taken care of", a blanket covered Whumpee, "then you can tell me why you were out walking this late in the freezing downpour."

Caretaker threw the clothes in their dryer, and came back to Whumpee.

"Have you eaten yet?" Caretaker eyed them, "don't lie to me."

"No Caretaker I haven't", Whumpee looked down now realizing how late it was.

"Are you okay?", Caretaker looked at them with concern.

"Yes, I'm sorry I'm bothering you", Whumpee felt a tear form in their eye.

"You're not bothering me Whumpee, I'm just concerned about you", Caretaker sighed, "can you tell me what happened", Caretaker started to make some dinner for Whumpee.

Whumpee blubbered a little, then sighed, they wiped the tear away, "my parents found out I-I'm part of the LGBQTA+ community", Whumpee realized they didn't know if Caretaker hated the community, they gave a terrified look to Caretaker.

Caretaker nodded, "how did they find out?"

"You don't. You're not mad at me?", Whumpee looked at Caretaker.

"No, why would I be", Caretaker frowned, "I promised you I'd take care of you no matter what, and I kind of already figured you were. Why didn't you call me at least? Just tell me what happened."

"I was at a pride festival earlier today with my friends, apparently someone saw me and told my parents. I got home, and they cornered me and asked me. I couldn't deny it, there was pictures even", Whumpee started to cry, "they kicked me out, and my phone was dead. I didn't know who else to go to, but I had no way to call you."

Caretaker handed them a tissue, "okay, how about you spend the night here. I'll go over to your parents house tomorrow...."

"I don't want to go back to them Caretaker, I knew they were... I knew they were homophobic, but them doing this just set it in stone. I won't be safe with them", Whumpee shook, "I don't know where I'll go, but I'm not going to them."

Caretaker finished cooking and handed Whumpee a plate full of food.

"You can stay here with me if you like", Caretaker sighed as they patted Whumpee's back, "I won't mind having you stay here."

"Caretaker you don't have to do that", Whumpee looked up from the food, "I don't want to bother you."

"Whumpee I promised I'd take care of you no matter what. You already have a bedroom in my house, so we can use that, I will work at getting your belongings", Caretaker smiled.

"But how?", Whumpee wrapped the blanket around them remembering they were naked under it.

"Let me see if your clothes are dry", Caretaker sighed.

"Wait how are you going to get my stuff?", Whumpee looked at him weirdly.

"You're a minor. It's illegal in our state to kick out a child. That's child endangerment. Your parents are going to be in big trouble for this one", Caretaker grinned.

"Even if a child is gay?"

"Yes, they are at least responsible until you reach eighteen, there is only a few ways out of that", Caretaker frowned, "I'll take it to court and at least get some things if yours, the rest we can easily replace."

The next morning Caretaker jumped at the sound of loud knocking at their front door.

"Oh goodie", Caretaker sighed as they looked out the window and saw Whumpee's parents, "oh good they brought the police... one less call for me to make."

Caretaker opened the door.

"Can I help you?", Caretaker opened the door slightly.

"Where's Whumpee?", the mom frowned, "we didn't mean to hurt them, but they can't stay here."

"Funny, them staying here has never been an issue before. They are in their bedroom resting after their long walk last night. It was freezing last night you know", Caretaker looked at the police, "they found out their child was LGBQTA+ and kicked them out last night. Whumpee showed up on my property dangerously close to getting sick. Whumpee has already voiced they do not want to return to their parents because they feel unsafe. I have a paper if you'd like, it gives me a right to take over Whumpee's care."

The police officer looked at the parents then at Caretaker.

"How dare you. That is only if something happened to us", Whumpee's dad tried to step into the home.

"You may not step into my home", Caretaker heard Whumpee stepnaround the corner, "that form permits me to take over care of Whumpee if their parents are deemed unfit to care for them. I know that is there as I made sure of it. You allowed your anger to cloud your judgment, and in that, you told your child they were unlovable. You endangered them. You are unfit to care for them now."

"Can't you do anything?" Whumpee's mom yelled at the police.

"Can I see the form?", the police nodded.

"You may come in, and I will get the form for you", Caretaker grinned, "those two are not allowed in my home."

The police stepped into the house, and Caretaker brought out the form.

"Yes, this all checks out", the police looked it over, "you will need to finalize with courts for this to be ruled."

"Yes, I have my appointment set up already", Caretaker looked at Whumpee and nodded.

"May I ask them a few questions before I leave... in private?", the police looked over at Whumpee.

"Yes of course, the living room is this way. I'll stay here in the kitchen", Caretaker watched them walk away.

"So are you here willingly", the police watched Whumpee's mannerisms.

"Yes, I don't feel safe with my parents... they just proved to me that they don't care. I want to stay with Caretaker", Whumpee looked at the police, "please don't make me leave with my parents."

"Okay and you feel safe around this person?", the officer looked around. The home seemed to be well kept and safe, "this person seems to to be stable.... I'll be honest they seem more stable then your parents, especially right now."

"Yes Caretaker has always been protective of me, and has promised several times they would protect me no matter what. This isn't the first time I've had to come here like this, but this time I was so scared. Plus the weather last night walking here, and not able to call Caretaker."

"Alright thankyou for your time. Because of your paperwork and the victim's statements I will not force them to leave with their parents. Just please make sure the paperwork is filed accordingly so this remains legal."

"Yes of course", Caretaker nodded.

The police stepped out of the house and after some yelling from Whumpee's parents. The porch was cleared.

Caretaker turned to Whumpee.

"You alright?", Caretaker gave a concerned look.

"Yes, a little shaken, but I'm alright", Whumpee hugged themself, "that was a lot."

"I know. We have some work to do, but I promise everything will be straightened out", Caretaker smiled, "you're safe now."

"Thankyou Caretaker", Whumpee quickly wiped a tear and sighed in relief.

"Your welcome", Caretaker walked to them and hugged them, "I'm here to protect you, always."

Taglist. As always please let me know if you want to be added or taken off of the list. It's not a problem at all.

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@bloodyandfrightened

@freefallingup13

@notpeppermint

@cyborg0109

@idontreallyexistyet

@painfulplots

@whumpbump

@everythingsscary

@skittles-the-whumpee

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@decaffeinatedtimetraveler94

@sausages-things

@sunglasses-in-the-bentley

[onceuponaoneshotfanfic]

hi i’m so in love with the way you write roy omg!! i was wondering if you could write something where the reader is maybe the team physio and she has a daughter like around phoebes age? just like fluffy pining roy <33333

Take Your Daughter to Work Day

Roy Kent x Mom!Reader

1.9k words

Warnings: Language

I'm such a sucker for pining Roy!! And potential step-dad Roy? Oh my heart 😫

“Good morning, Mister Roy!”

Roy wasn’t expecting to see your daughter sitting in the corner of the treatment room when he walked in with your morning coffee. Despite his surprise, he offered her a smile as he handed you a to-go cup.

“Morning, Bevs,” he responded, deciding that your kid was the politest one in Phoebe’s class. He turned to you. “Didn’t know it was Take Your Daughter to Work Day. Would’ve brought her a hot chocolate.”

With a sigh, you shook your head, making sure Beverly had turned back to the book in her hands. “School was out today and tomorrow for some conference the teachers have,” you explained in a low voice. “And my mum’s still recovering from her surgery, and I couldn’t get a sitter, so Bee’s with me today.”

Roy couldn’t help the way his eyebrows flew up. “Her dad wasn’t able to help out? Thought he worked from home. It’s not like Bev needs constant supervision.”

Your grip tightened around your cup as you rolled your eyes. “It’s not his day,” you whispered, your voice full of annoyance. “Which apparently means he’s not a parent until Friday afternoon.”

“Fucking twat,” Roy snorted. He immediately remembered that there was a child in the room. “Shit. Sorry.”

The laugh that flew out of your mouth sent a shiver down his spine, especially when it was punctuated by your hand touching his bicep. “You’re fine,” you assured him, giving his arm a squeeze before letting go. “It’s completely true, anyways. Even Bee knows that, although maybe in less colorful language.”

Roy returned your smile as he watched you bring your coffee to your lips. “Right, right.”

He wondered if you knew he fancied you. You had to know. He brought you coffee every morning, was always on time for his sessions with you despite his reputation for chronic lateness, he somehow always managed to be the one to bring Phoebe to playdates with Beverly, even when his sister was available, and he knew the way he looked at you was rarely, if ever, professional. In most cases, he’d have asked you out already.

But he knew that, as a single mum, your situation was different from most cases. He saw it with his sister. You had to prioritize the wonderful little human that sat in the corner of the treatment room who called him “Mister Roy” and always gave him a hug and thanked him for rides home from school on those days that you were desperate for help. He also knew that asking you out meant more than drinks and straight to bed; it would be something real, something he’d have to commit to. And he definitely was interested in that; he just didn’t know if you thought so.

Sam Obisanya poked his head into the room, interrupting the silence. “Good morning.” His eyes found your daughter. “Oh, hey there, Beverly!”

Your daughter waved. “Good morning, Mister Sam!” Roy found it adorable the way she always called adults “Mister” or “Miss”.

“Hey, Sam,” you sighed. “Ready?”

Sam nodded and plopped himself down on your table. Roy saw your eyes shift over to Beverly. He could see it on your expression: She’s going to be so bored.

Without a second thought, Roy approached your daughter, taking his time to crouch down in front of her in spite of his knee. “Oi, Bevvie.” She looked up. “I know you’d probably rather read your book, but I’ve got all these papers in my office, they need to be put in alphabetical order. Think you could come help me with that? And maybe after you could come out on the pitch, help us with training. Then we could grab some lunch with your mum.” He looked over his shoulder at you. “Would that be alright?”

For a moment you thought you were going to cry. Fuck, Roy Kent was such a nice guy. If he wasn’t a gorgeous retired professional footballer, you’d have wanted him to ask you out ages ago. Or hell, you’d do it yourself. He was better with Bev than her own dad sometimes.

“That would be great,” you managed to choke out as you got started with Sam. “Bee?”

Beverly was already out of her seat, taking Roy’s hand in hers, book forgotten on her chair. “Can I really go out on the pitch?” she asked Roy, eyes glittering with excitement.

“Fuck yeah,” Roy assured her as he led her to the door. “You can even yell at Jamie Tartt if you want.”

As the pair passed by on their way out, you shook your head at Roy, smiling. “Thank you,” you mouthed.

With his free hand, he gently touched the small of your back. You wondered if he could feel you shiver in response. “Anytime,” he whispered in your ear. He turned his attention back to Beverly. “Let’s grab you a hot chocolate first, alright?”

~

After a morning of work, you made your way to the coaches’ office, where Beverly was sitting at Roy’s desk, drawing a picture while Roy talked with Nate and Beard. He lit up when he saw you.

“Ready for lunch?” he asked in place of a greeting.

“Sure.” You walked over to Bev and looked over her shoulder at her artwork. It was a drawing of her and Roy on the football pitch. You ruffled her hair, taking note of the whistle she wore around her neck. “Bee, did you thank the coaches for letting you hang out this morning?”

She jumped out of Roy’s seat and approached each coach, giving them a hug in turn. “Thank you, Mister Beard. Thank you, Mister Nate.” She gazed up at Roy with adoration on her little face. “Thank you, Mister Roy.” Instead of a hug, she offered him her drawing. “This is for you. For being so nice to me today.”

He blinked rapidly as he took the picture. “This is fucking great. Thanks.” Immediately, he went and pinned it on the corkboard behind his desk, where there were already several pictures made by Phoebe hanging up. He looked at you as the other coaches made themselves look busy. “Called my sister. Phoebe’s at my mum’s, said Bev’s more than welcome to hang out there this afternoon. And I can drive her home when I pick up Pheebs. She can go over tomorrow, too.”

“Oh my God, thank you.” Without thinking, you threw your arms around Roy’s neck, pulling him into a hug.

After his brain stopped malfunctioning at your touch, he let his arms wrap around your waist, returning the embrace. Over your shoulder, he could see Beard eying the two of you with raised eyebrows and offering him a cartoonish thumbs-up while Nate watched with a wistful smile. Despite Roy never saying a word, the other coaches were painfully aware of his crush on you.

Once Roy recovered from the joy of being hugged by you, he drove you and Beverly to a nearby chip shop, where he insisted on treating the two of you.

“Come on, Roy,” you pleaded as he shoved your hand away from the credit card machine. “It’s the least I can do after you helped with Bev.”

He shook his head. “Fuck no. My mum would kill me if I let a woman pay for a meal that I invited her to.” He offered you a smile as the machine read his card. “When you invite me to lunch, I’ll let you pay. Deal?”

Your heart skipped a beat. Did that mean he wanted you to ask him to grab lunch sometime? “Fine. Next one’s on me,” you conceded, hoping you didn’t sound too excited at the thought.

As the three of you sat at an outside table and ate your lunch, you couldn’t keep your eyes off Roy. The way he looked Beverly in the eye when she spoke to him and gave her his full attention wasn’t something you were used to seeing. You didn’t date too much, and you very, very rarely introduced men to your daughter. On the couple of occasions where she did meet the guy you were dating, it was never like this. Sure, they were polite and nice to her, but you could tell it was only because they were trying to make a good impression on you. None of those men stuck around much longer after meeting your daughter. And you didn’t really want them to.

But Roy was so genuine. He asked her questions and was fully invested in what she told him, and he even let her steal some of his chips after she’d finished her own. You know most of this came from his own experience as Phoebe’s devoted uncle, but you knew it was also because he was just a genuinely kind person under his gruff surface. And it only made your silly little crush grow.

As the three of you climbed back into Roy’s giant car after lunch, Roy showed you a text he’d just gotten on his mobile. “From my sister.”

Does Bev want to sleep over? I can take them both to mum’s in the morning.

“Oh, that would be great,” you said. You turned around in your seat. “Bee, d’you want to sleep over with Phoebe tonight?”

The squealing coming from the backseat gave you your answer.

By the time you arrived at Roy’s mum’s house, Beverly was so excited she barely looked at you as she leaped out of the car and sprinted to the door, where a bouncing Phoebe waited for her. You and Roy followed and said quick hellos to his mother. You gave Beverly a goodbye hug and kiss, thanked Roy’s mum, and followed Roy back to the car.

Roy opened your door for you before climbing in on his side. The short ride back to Nelson Road was much quieter without an eight-year-old chattering away in the back seat.

“Thanks again,” you finally said. “I really appreciate you helping out.”

He shook his head. “Don’t mention it. Figure this way you can focus on work, and Bev can hang with Pheebs.” His fingers drummed on the steering wheel. “Plus, now you’ve got a free evening.” He glanced sideways at you. “Got any plans?”

You shrugged, wringing your hands a bit at the interest in his voice. “Probably just take myself out to dinner. Don’t usually get to do that during the week.”

Roy nodded. “Don’t suppose you’d want some company?”

Surely, you’d heard him wrong. “Company?” you echoed.

“Only if you want,” he quickly clarified. “I know alone time’s important; my sister really likes relaxing with a glass of wine by herself, but I mean…” He shrugged, fingers tightening around the steering wheel. “Might be nice. Sharing a meal together that doesn’t come in a Styrofoam box.”

“Are you going to let me pay for this one? Since I let you pay for lunch?”

A snort flew out of his nose as he pulled into his spot in the parking lot. “Fuck no. I never let a woman pay for a first date.” He offered you a small smile as the two of you climbed out of his car and met behind it. “Pick you up at six?”

In spite of your racing heart, you folded your arms coolly, returning his grin. “Sounds good. Just anything but fish and chips.”

The sound of his laughter made your heart dance. “Deal.”

[writing-blog-iguess]

Online Matchup 4

Summery: Y/N makes a trip back home last minute, ruining Jason's plan for a breakfast date, but that won't stop him from coming up with a different plan.

Warning: swearing, talk of surgery, Jason's being a sweetheart, fluff

A/n: this is becoming one of my comfort fics to write, and I can't be mad about it. I'm glad you guys are enjoying it. Feedbacks always welcome

Words: 3097

Ao3

Series master list

——

October 8

Jason (6:40am) Good morning How are you this beautiful morning?

Y/N Why in the everloving fuck are you awake at six in the morning?

Jason Aren’t you a potty mouth in the early mornings Someone should teach you a lesson

Y/N It’s to early for anything right now

Jason’s May I remind you, that you’re awake this early too

Y/N My sister decided it was the perfect time to call me Apparently it couldn’t wait until I was awake enough to call her back And now I can’t sleep

Jason Everything okay?

Y/N Define okay?

Jason It’s your dad isn’t it?

Y/N Yeah I don’t know, I don’t want to talk about it

Jason Fair enough

Y/N Now answer my question

Jason Demanding Wanted to know how you were doing after last night

Y/N Better now that I’ve slept I wish I could sleep longer tho Though my eyes hurt and it feels like I have a hangover

Jason Consequences of crying before bed

Y/N Make it go away

Jason Wanna meet for breakfast? Y/N?

Y/N (8:35am) Oh, sorry I fell asleep

Jason Uh huh It has nothing to do with the fact that I asked if you wanted to go for breakfast

Y/n Mm don’t know what you’re talking about And isn’t there a rule where a guy has to wait a least three days Before you ask the girl out again

Jason Apparently My brother advised me the same thing But since I could care less what he thinks about my relationship I have decided to ignore him and take the plunge and ask you anyways Besides he barely listens to his own advice So to each their own I guess

Y/N Why do I get the feeling that you ignore your brother a lot

Jason Couldn’t tell you So, breakfast?

Y/N Uh, wish I could But I have a train to catch 

Jason Where’s it going?

Y/N Metropolis 

Jason You're going home? Why so sudden?

Y/n The call with my sister? Apparently my dad is having surgery and my mom wants everyone there until he’s done Don’t know why I have to go, by the time I’m there it’ll probably be over

Jason Yikes What’s the surgery for?

Y/N Dunno, something to do with something? I’m not sure, I was half asleep when she called And she used that to her advantage and got me to agree to go home today

Jason Don’t you have class tomorrow?

Y/N Not until the afternoon

Jason Work?

Y/n Not until Tuesday 

Jason Huh

Y/n Yup tbh I rather spend my Sunday with you then go home But it’s family and I can’t say no to my sister

Jason I get that family’s first But I would choose you over my family

Y/n … You can’t just say that!

Jason But flustering you is becoming my favourite past time

Y/n Get a new one!

Jason Nah, don’t think I will Okay, so no breakfast How about I drop you off at the station?

Y/N Tempting But if you do, then I’ll miss the train Because I wanna kiss your stupid face And besides, I’m almost there

Jason My face isn’t stupid … You wanna kiss me? Colour me flattered

Y/n I rescind my statement 

Jason Can’t do that, it’s in writing Hold on, when you said you were sleeping You were actually packing, weren’t you?

Y/N Guilty I’m sorry I’ve spent thirty minutes debating on whether or not to ditch my family for you

Jason But in the end you’re ditching me Feels like your running from something I see how it is

Y/N I’m sorry D: I’m not running away or anything 

Jason It’s okay, really I’m not mad or anything Okay, maybe a little disappointed But he’s your dad and you don’t know when’s the next time you see him So it’s okay, don’t feel bad I’ll wait around until your back And I know your not, I just took the joke too far and I’m sorry

Y/n I’m still sorry

Jason Can I call you?

Y/N Uhhhhhhh Give me a minute 

Jason Take as much time as you need I can wait

Y/n Sweet of you But I needed to find a seat first And then my headphones

Jason So You’re good now?

Y/n Yup

It didn’t take more than a second before your phone rang after you sent the message.

“I thought you wanted to call?” you answered, moving your phone so Jason could see your face. He shrugged, shooting you a smile.

“Wanted to see your pretty face is all,” he said, and you could feel your face heat up at the compliment. Averting your eyes, you sink in your seat, trying to hide your face in your sweater. “Awe, is this what you look like when you get flustered? There’s no way I can't stop flustering you now. If this is what your reaction is going to be every time I do.”

“I’m hanging up now,” you mumbled into your sweater, and wondered if he heard that. Judging by the smile he gave you, he did.

“Nah, I don’t think so. You called my face pretty and you wanted to kiss it,” he said. That made you come out of your sweater and glared at him.

“I think I said stupid face,” you corrected, “you have a stupid face.”

“That you want to kiss,” Jason pointed out with a smile. You stuck out your tongue at him, making him laugh. “How’s the train ride?”

You shrugged, shifting in your seat trying to get comfortable. “A train ride I guess. We just left the station and it’ll be two hours until we get to Metropolis? My butts gonna hurt once I get there.”

“Gotta walk around once in a while,” Jason reminded, “did you bring anything for the ride?”

“Yeah, homework I still need to finish, my sketchbook and some books I’ve been meaning to read.”

“Sounds like a party,” Jason joked. You huffed out a laugh.

“Oh yeah, real life of the party over here.” 

Before either of you could continue, you faintly heard a door slamming open and closing before hearing a faint call of Jason! You promised me breakfast! From what you could make out, it was a female voice and you pushed down the bout of jealousy that came from nowhere. You didn’t have the right to be jealous. Jason wasn’t yours, he was his own person and you two weren’t seeing each other officially. He was free to do what he pleased. Still, you couldn’t lie and say that it didn’t hurt.

You watched as Jason scowled, and turned towards the voice. “Yeah, give me a minute I’m on the phone.”

You schooled your features and raised an eyebrow as he turned back to his phone. “You already had breakfast plans, yet you still tried to make them with me? Wow Jason, didn’t know you had that in you.”

“Okay, first of all, I’m not a two timing bitch,” he clarified and you blanched at the statement. Damn, and you thought you hid it well. “And like I said before, I’d ditch my family for you any day of the week without question.”

“Aw Jason, you’d ditch your own sister! I see how it is,” the female voice said. Jason made a face as a blond haired girl came into frame, hanging off of Jason’s shoulders. Her nose pressed into his cheek and she smiled. “Tell me how you really feel, Jason.”

“Okay, I will,” he said, shoving her off, “you’re an annoying little shit.” She laughed and turned towards the phone. She was pretty, you had to admit.

“Oh, Tim’s right. You are cute,” she said, and you pulled your sweater over your mouth, trying to keep a laugh in as Jason looked offended.

“Steph!” he yelled, shoving her face out of frame. “Go away.”

“No, you promised me breakfast last night, and I demand pancakes,” she said, coming back in, shoving Jason out of frame as she did so. She turned to you and smiled. “Hello, I’m Jason’s sister Stephanie. You must be Y/N, it’s nice to meet you. I’ve heard virtually nothing about you.”

“And I’m trying to keep it that way,” he grunted, pushing her away. The two fought until finally they settled with Stephanie leaning on his shoulder. “How’d you even know their name?”

“Tim,” she answered. You raised your eyebrow in question. “He gets bored when he has nothing to do. And he decided to snoop around Jason’s life.”

“Well I’ll try not to be offended,” you said, though you furrowed your brows in concern. “Should I be worried?”

“I don’t think so,” Stephanie hummed, “not unless you have something to hide.”

“Do you have something to hide?” Jason pressed, a teasing smile dancing on his lips. You puffed out your cheeks and looked away.

“Oooh you do,” Stephanie sang, “tell us before we find out from Tim.”

“Tim needs to mind his own fucking business,” you muttered to yourself, causing Jason to laugh. “And no, I have nothing to hide. Lived a pretty boring life.”

“Don’t know, you tried killing your sister once,” Jason mused. 

“I didn’t try on purpose! I pushed her off the deck into the lake,” you corrected, “and my dad got to her before anything could happen. Man, he was pissed. I feared for my life that day. I’ve never known fear until I saw the look he gave me.” You shuddered at the memory.

“How old were you?” Stephanie asked, worry laced in her words. You shrugged, staring at the corner of your phone, avoiding their gaze.

“Ten I think? Could be younger, I don’t know. Thought it would be funny, and it was until it wasn’t.”

“Did he hurt you?” Jason asked, you shook your head and moved your gaze to him.

“No. But the way he looked, he wanted to. If we were alone he probably would have. I booked it into the car and hid there until we went home. Then I hid in my room for the rest of the day.”

“Yikes. Why was he so mad? Bruce wouldn’t have been if we did something like that.”

“That’s because we knew how to take care of ourselves and we knew how to swim,” Jason pointed out.

“And he probably doesn’t have favourites,” you chimed in. You hummed in thought, ignoring the worried looks the two siblings were giving you. “But he doesn’t strike me as picking a favourite among his kids, unless he’s really good at hiding it. But no parent is that good at hiding that.”

“Have experience, do you?” Jason asked, you only hummed not wanting to elaborate. You aren’t sure how, but what was supposed to be a lighthearted conversation turned sour. You scrunched up your nose as a thought occurred to you. If it was this easy to talk to both Jason and Stephanie, you were afraid how the rest of his family would be. “Whatcha thinking about?”

“What you guys are having for breakfast,” you said instead of you voicing your thoughts.

“Ooh yes. I did come here for breakfast,” Stephanie said, as if she had forgotten the reason for being here. She turned to him and poked his cheek. “Make me pancakes with bacon and ham and eggs and everything.”

“How can you eat so much and not gain anything,” Jason grumbled as he moved off the couch and towards the kitchen. Stephanie shifted slightly so she was more centered to the camera.

“I work out,” she simply said with a shrug. Jason grumbled something, and since he was too far away you couldn’t hear what he said. “So, how’d you meet Jason anyways? Tim won’t say and Jason doesn’t want to talk about you when asked.”

“That’s because you pester me so much that I don’t want to talk about them,” Jason called, “and you don’t have to answer anything you want too, Y/N. Don’t let Stephanie bully you into answering questions.”

“It’s okay, Jason, I don’t mind. I know what it’s like to have siblings,” you said with a smile. “We met online. Started talking a few weeks back and haven’t stopped since.”

“Ah, you guys are still new,” Stephanie mused, “that means you can still back out before you guys get too serious.” You laughed at the same time Jason yelled hey! “Kidding, I’m kidding. I haven’t seen Jason happy in awhile. Please stick around, he’s more bearable when he’s happy.”

You watched as Jason stalked towards her, and plucked the phone from her. “If all you came here for was to make fun of me, you can go home without your food.”

“Noooo, Jason I’m sorry,” you heard Stephanie whine. And you couldn't be sure, but you saw Stephanie grovel a little bit on the floor. Although Stephanie couldn’t see Jason’s expression, you could and smiled at the little smile he shot you.

“Then go take a shower, you stink,” he said, and she was quick to race to the bathroom. “Your clothes are still here from last time!” he called and set the phone down so watch him as he prepared breakfast. “Sorry about her. I completely forgot she was coming over today.”

“No worries,” you dismissed, watching in awe as Jason cut up some vegetables with ease. “She was fun to talk to.”

“Prefer her over me, huh?”

“Nope. I like you more,” you said. “Where’d you learn how to cook?”

“Alfred taught me when I was young, and I kept going afterwards. Found it helped me when things got too stressed,” he explained. “Stress cooking is a lot healthier than other ways to deal.”

“I get that,” you mused, “I stress clean.”

“Nothing wrong with that,” he grunted. He stopped for a moment and looked towards you; eyes narrowed. “Did you have breakfast this morning?” You bit the top of your lip and avoided looking at him. “Y/N,” Jason said in warning.

“It was too early to eat!” you cracked, “I had a coffee and that was it.” Jason shook his head, going back to his food.

“I hope you eat something soon.”

“I packed some snacks. But they’re nothing compared to what you’re making for breakfast.”

 “Well next time actually eat something or else I’ll just have to come over and cook for you.”

“That a threat?”

“No, more like a promise.”

“I’ll hold you to that,” you said with a smile. 

“Stop flirting and cook me my food!” Stephanie yelled after the quickest shower you have ever seen someone take. 

“So fucking demanding,” Jason grunted as you laughed.

“I should let you go so you can focus on the food instead of getting distracted,” you mused.

“But you’re the only kind of distraction I’d like,” he said, and you heard Stephanie gag. Laughing, you shook your head, trying to keep from blushing. “Okay maybe you’re right. Or otherwise, I’m going to throw Steph out the window.”

“Ha! I would like to see you try!”

Jason rolled his eyes and flicked them towards you. “Let me know when you’re there?”

“I can do that.”

---

Y/N (11:30 am) Ugh, I hate train rides

Jason Could have flown

Y/N Yeah but train tickets are cheaper

Jason True Made it in one piece?

Y/N Yup Now I’m making my way to the hospital

Jason Someone picking you up?

Y/n Nah, I’m taking the bus Need the extra time before I get there

Jason I get that 

Y/n How was breakfast?

Jason Good Though it would be better if it was you

Y/n Stoooooooopppppppp

Jason Never I’m sorry about Steph, we can be a handful sometimes

Y/n No worries, I like her Is the rest of your family that energetic?

Jason Some yeah, the rest are just tamed

Y/n Sounds fun

Jason Oh yeah, the best

Y/n I can hear the sincerity from here 

Jason Almost to the hospital?

Y/n Yeah I gotta go

Jason Tell me how it goes

Y/N (2:40 pm) I shouldn’t have come Why did I say yes?

Jason Because you were sleep deprived and you can’t say no to your sister Also because your dads in the hospital 

Y/n Right He’s fine by they way, now he’s just recovering Doctors say they did what they could and he’ll be out of here in a couple of days

Jason Figured out what the surgery was about?

Y/N Nope and at this point I’m too afraid to ask

Jason Wow Why do you have regrets?

Y/n I don’t know how or why But somehow my sister figured out I was seeing someone Or at least talking to someone and kept pestering me until I told them I’ve been bamboozled 

Jason Guess I’m not your dirty little secret anymore huh

Y/n Guess it wasn’t meant to be Oh well can’t be helped

Jason So now that your dads fine, you coming home?

Y/n No Somehow I have been convinced to stay the night and take the morning train in the morning Which sucks, I already bought my ticket for tonight 

Jason That’s rough buddy

Y/n Can’t be helped I guess Now I get to play 20 questions 

Jason But at least you get to spend time with your family

Y/n True

Jason you know, if you want I can drive up there and take the train with you

Y/N That is very sweet of you and very tempting But you have work and I don’t want to inconvenience you

Jason You’re not an inconvenience If anything, you’d be doing me a favour I have the day off tomorrow and I’ve been meaning to do something I’m not very good at doing nothing

Y/N What about your bike?

Jason When I said drive, I meant the loosely I’d take the train or fly Or I can drive us back I have a car too, you know

Y/N Where would you stay?

Jason I have a friend living there that I’ve been meaning to visit Plus we can go for breakfast tomorrow before making the trip back

Y/N Very tempting But ultimately I’m not going to tell you what to do It’d be your choice

Jason See you in the morning then

[fleur-de-violette]

Dear Mom,

AO3

Summary:

Dear Mom, I finally got a job at the Justice League Cafeteria! Or: Robin over the years, seen by a stranger.

Note:

Word count: 543 Characters: OC, Robin Genre: crack, humor

Dear Mom,

It is real! I still can’t believe I got my dream job: cook at the Justice League watchtower cafeteria! My coworkers have been very nice, and I have so much to learn from them! The justice league members are also very nice: Superman complimented my cake! But Batman scares me a little. I think he might be a vampire.

With love,

Your son.

-

Dear Mom,

Today, Batman came with a child. It made him much less scary! The kid name is Robin, and he’s a ray of sunshine. He likes strawberry cake the best. I’m a little worried for him, thought. Batman seemed to be treating him well but should a kid so small be with someone that scary? Is he a vampire as well? Do vampire like strawberry?

With love,

Your son.

-

Dear Mom,

I am doing well. I actually have two trainee that will start working under me starting tomorrow. By the way, remember Robin, the kid who was with Batman. Turn out he’s not a vampire, because he grew up! And oh, boy, was I that way in my teenage years too? (don’t answer that). Because the kid has some issues. I still give him some extra strawberry cake. Teenagerhood is tough.

With love,

Your son.

-

Dear Mom,

Ok, Robin might be a vampire. And apparently when teenagerhood is too hard, vampire go back in time. Because he had become a kid again, and the process might change some things, as he is now in love with my chocolate cake. I like my life at the watchtower: you never get bored!

With love,

Your son.

-

Dear Mom,

Robin is not coming anymore. I don’t know what happened to him. I still save him some chocolate cake.

With love,

Your son.

-

Dear Mom,

Good news! Robin wasn’t coming because he was doing his transformation process thing. Kinda like in Dr Who, remember Dr Who? We used to watch it. Well, that would track. So maybe Batman is a vampire and Robin is a Timelord? Should I ask him? But is it indelicate to ask if someone is a Timelord with just Dr Who as your reference? Maybe Dr Who is an inaccurate representation, and they all hate it? Anyway, this Robin likes caramel and is allergic to nuts. (Can Timelords be allergic to nuts?)

With love,

Your son.

-

Dear Mom,

You will never guess what! I got the head of the bakery position! This was really what I wanted, now I’ll be able to go full creative with my cakes! This is so, so cool. I ever did an interview for the Planet, be sure to read it.

PS: Robin is now a girl, good for her. She eats my blueberry waffle like they are made of air.

With love,

Your son.

-

Dear Mom,

Robin is not a girl anymore, and he did his age regression thing. Also his niceness was lost during the process, because he told me that he could teach me how to bake. Me. The head of the bakery.

I want to challenge him to a cooking show off, but also, what do I know? He’s probably like a thousand-year-old, he might destroy me.

With love,

Your son.

[ghostlygeto]

wanna write me some cute Bokuto fluff ??? you know you do.... i'm itching crying BARKING plz bb just a scrap a crumb

what was that? bokuto scraps for the love of my life? always. anything for u my love. kinda lame bc i wrote it in a total of like 30 minutes but blehhhhh

warnings: fluff s'all. bokuto is clingy. i don’t proof read

wc: 500 lol

mornings with bokuto were always the worst. not because they were bad, but because he refused to let you go. it didn’t matter what the occasion was. if you had work, if he had practice, it didn’t matter. he was not moving.

“bo, please. this is a really important thing in my family. i have to be there, and on time. otherwise my mom’ll murder me,” you tried to squirm your way out of his arm, but his grip was strong. stronger than you, that’s for sure. “promise when i get home i’ll get right back into bed with you.”

“don’t lie,” bokuto whined, burying his face further into your chest, “when you get home you’ll want to clean or go on a walk, and then you’ll want to take a shower. and then it’s dinner time, then you’ll want to read your book or watch your show until bed. and then, finally, after hours and hours of suffering without you, you’ll be ready for bed. then you’ll let me cuddle you.”

you frowned, knowing he was right. you had used that on him one too many times, apparently. enough for him to see right through you, at least. “i promise, we can cuddle for a little bit when i get home before i start cleaning okay?” you pushed back his shoulders so you could look in his eyes, moving one of your hands so you could look into his eyes.

“promise promise?” he sighed, a small pout on his face. “y’know i have to leave in two days for like a week, so if you’re lying i’m not cuddling you until i come back.” bokuto moved away, sitting up and looking over at you again, “and i mean it, for real. i really won’t cuddle you until i get home.” “i know you don’t mean that,” you laughed, leaning over to press a kiss to his shoulder, “you could never do that to me, kou. i think you’d cave before i do,” you watched him feign offense, turning away from you and getting out of bed.

“just for that, i don’t want to cuddle with you anymore today. feel free to go and hang out with your mom and come home and clean and shower and read and mind your own business until you fall asleep, i’ll just cuddle you tomorrow. not today.” he crossed his arms and looked away, though you saw him open one of his eyes to make sure you were looking at him like a child. “and i mean that.”

“sure you do, loverboy.” you rolled your eyes and stood up yourself, stretching your limbs. “i’ll be home around two, okay? if you’re not already cuddled up in bed when i get here i’m not gonna wait around, i’ll get started on doing my other stuff and then it’ll be too late.”

“won’t move from this spot ‘til you’re back, then,” bokuto dove himself back onto the bed, curling up in the blankets, “have fun with your mom, i’m gonna be snug as a bug in a rug while i wait.”

reblog, comments, nd likes appreciated ;3

[chaosduckies]

Restoration (Chapter 13)

The last chapter is here everyone! In honor of pride month, I give you this. This amazing chapter that is easily one of my favorites to write. I hope you all enjoy! I promise these two won’t be gone for forever though :D

Word Count: 3.6k

CW: None!

———13———

Four Months Later

———Nathan———

I stared up at the stadium lights above while the school principal and superintendent were talking to the many parents sitting in the stands. I wasn’t paying attention to what they were saying. Something about our class and graduation. I didn’t care all too much. Only that I could go home after this and wake up the next morning without having to worry about school ever again. 

Ryker kept me cupped in his hands much like the other people sitting beside him were, waiting until we could get up and receive the piece of paper that officially states that we’ve graduated high school. As soon as the many, many speeches were done, they finally started letting the rows in front of us stand up and walk up the steps to the removable platform. 

And soon enough, it was our rows turn, walking in a single line, and getting handed the piece of paper. I held mine close, smiling the entire way back to our chairs. I did it, mom. All of this was for her and dad in the first place. Though, I would’ve never seen today if it weren’t for Ryker. 

We moved the strings attached to our caps to the left while everyone started cheering loudly. I had to cover my ears while I laughed and looked back up to Ryker, who was laughing and waving to his siblings that were in the stands. Today was a great day. And a sad one. Tomorrow I would wake up the next morning and have no one to talk to. But that was okay. I shouldn’t bother Ryker anymore. No matter how many times he’s made me laugh even after my mother passed away. No matter how many times he’s given me almost exactly what I’ve needed for so long, I knew today would be the last day I would get to talk to him. 

Everyone had started to head home while Ryker met up with his siblings, getting hugged and congratulated. I did too, just minus the hugging part. It was hard to have a smile on today since my mom was supposed to be here, but I did anyways. I just hoped she was looking at me right now. 

“So I’ll see you at home in a few?” Jasmine asked, taking Isabelle’s hand and giving me a teasing side eye. Apparently everyone alone with her was worried about me after what had happened and just tried their best to help me out. They knew what it was like. And now, Jasmine doesn’t glare at me anymore or give me empty threats. If anything, she’s the complete opposite of what I first thought of her. We’ve become pretty good friends. 

“Yeah.” Ryker replied, waving them off while walking back into the school and letting me slide off his hand. What was he doing? 

“Hey, um, wanna just change back into your clothes? I’ll take you back after.” Ryker told me as I nodded, heading into the nearby restrooms to take off the black gown and fold it neatly into the cap. I sighed, getting ready to say goodbye to him in just a few minutes before he drops me off at the bus stop. 

I walked back out, seeing that he had already folded his clothes nicely and put on his signature hoodie. I climbed back onto his waiting hand as he grinned. That was… interesting. What was happening? I didn’t know, but I just carried on, still saddened by the thought of saying goodbye. 

We walked outside the school, walking down the sidewalk, but not taking the turn to the bus stop he usually does. I looked up at him worriedly, “The bus stops over… there.” I pointed back to the street as he just innocently smiled at me. Oh. Where was he taking me then? I wasn’t too worried honestly, but still. I wanted to know. 

After about a silent ten minute walk with no sound except the crickets and faint cars in the distance, we had arrived at the same coffee place he had taken me to months before. Didn’t he say he works here? 

“I thought you were taking me back home.” I told him, confusion lining my voice. He shook his head, “I said I’d take you back after. I never said after what.”  

There was a loop hole? Why were we even at this coffee shop in the first place? I couldn’t exactly argue with him, and I didn’t exactly mind it either. It just means I get a few extra minutes before leaving. How could I argue with time? I didn’t know whether to like the fact my heart was beating faster and faster, or to hate it. All I did know was that I was excited because he wanted to spend the last few minutes of the night with me. 

We sat down at the exact same table when we had first came here. There were a few people, some even talking with the workers. I sat down at the human-sized table on top, facing Ryker while he scooted all the way down. I bit the side of my cheek as a woman with the cafe logo on her work outfit came with a notepad. Ryker laughed and greeted her like they were best friends while I didn’t pay attention all too much. I guess Ryker noticed and ordered for me. He knew what I liked anyways. 

“Everything okay?” Ryker asked, his smile slowly falling as he lowered his head to get a better look at me. To be honest, not really, but I wasn’t going to let him worry about me anymore. Again, I can’t keep leaning on people. 

“Yeah,” I nodded my head, “What are we doing here anyways?” My voice came out a little mumbled, but Ryker heard it all the same.

“Graduation present. For the both of us I guess.” Ryker shrugged his shoulders, but I could tell he was hiding something else. I had no idea, but I guess I’ll figure it out. Plus, I didn’t even think about bringing a present for him. Was I supposed to? No, no time to feel guilty. 

The lady came back around again, handing us our drinks and telling Ryker that she’ll see him tomorrow night for work while he laughed and nodded. I don’t know why I felt so insecure right now, but I just did. Instead of dwelling on that, I took a sip of my hot chocolate and stared out the small window next to us covered by fake vines and flowers. I wish I had more time… 

“Nathan?” 

I jumped at the mention of my name, nearly spilling some of my drink on me. Ryker chuckled softly above, a slightly sad smile on his face. 

“Are you sure you’re okay? You’re jumpier than usual.” His free hand cupped behind me, but never touched. What was he trying to do? I have zero idea, but I shouldn’t waste what little time I had. I didn’t want him to leave. But I knew he would anyways. Maybe it would be a good thing if he does? No, no it will not. It really wouldn’t be. 

“Yeah, I promise. I’m just a little tired.” I shrugged it off, taking another small sip. Ryker did the same, looking outside the small window. I sighed, internally crying while watching a few people walk on the sidewalk outside. Didn’t Ryker have to get home? It was already about to be ten, and we were getting drinks and sitting down together. Shouldn’t he be with his family? He just graduated too. 

“What are you gonna do now that we’re out of high school?” Ryker asked, setting his cup down and resting his head on his crossed arms in front of me. I fidgeted a little before sighing and shrugging my shoulders, “I didn’t h-have a plan. Just get a job and hope for the best?” I nervously laughed. 

“What about you?” I asked, seeing him think about his answer. 

“Watch my siblings? I, um, can’t exactly go to college if I still have to watch over everyone.” Ryker laughed sadly. My heart sank. That’s not exactly fair. I think he deserves to go to college if he wants to. If I could I would help him, but I already know he wouldn’t let me. He’ll be leaving soon anyways. I’ll just be another name he remembers after today. 

“I-I think you should.” I cheered him on while he blinked a couple of times, laughing along with me. 

“Thank you, but It’ll be hard if I go. I can’t keep up with everything all the time.” Ryker replied, trying to hide the sadness in his voice. My heart throbbed. If only I could help. But I was just small. I mean, I can’t even get around their house anymore without any help. What makes me think I can handle taking care of five other kids while Ryker was focusing on college? I breathed out a shaky breath, my slightly trembling hands reaching for the little mug filled with hot chocolate. Just a few more minutes. Just a few more minutes before all of this goes away.

It stayed silent for a while. Be both had finished our drinks, there were only three other people here besides us to in the café. I didn’t want to leave. I did all of this for my parents, and now it’s going away. I made friends, I graduated, heck, I’m not even that scared of giants anymore. Well, maybe a little, but I was more talking about Ryker and his siblings. But I did all of this for them because they wanted me to live a normal life, and yet, I still can’t. What do I do? 

“Nathan, are you sure you’re okay?” Ryker asked again, pushing his cup to the edge of the table. 

“Mhm.” I nodded my head, doing the same as him and trying my best to keep the smile on my face going. 

“Would you mind if I take you to one more place? It’s like a five minute walk from here.” Ryker asked, a slightly worried expression on his face. I shook my head, standing up out of my seat and waiting for Ryker to do the same. I climbed onto his waiting hand, sitting in the middle just as usual while I tried not to look down at the terrifying drop below me. I sighed, bringing my knees closer to my chest and burying my head. Did it really have to end? 

——————

The walk was short just as he had said. It was a tiny park. It looked sort of abandoned. The grass looked like it hadn’t been cut for a while, there were some short vines latching onto the poles of the swing set and little parts of the slide. The lights were dim here, but it felt nice. The slight breeze that just barely ruffled my hair, how quiet this place was. How come no one fixes this place up? I feel like more people would come here if it looked a little nicer. 

“I know it’s nothing special, but my parents used to bring me and my siblings here almost everyday after school,” He breathed, crossing his legs while sitting on a nearby bench, “It doesn’t look perfect, but it still has some great memories.” 

I looked up, seeing how he smiled while looking at the park that was now covered in overgrown plants. My face heated up as I caught myself staring, turning back around and studying the sight. It doesn’t look bad at all. I liked it here. I liked everywhere Ryker has taken me. To that café, the little store that we went to just a few weeks ago, here. I sucked in a shaky breath, wiping away the loose tears that fell down my cheeks. I won’t get this feeling anymore…

“Ryker…” I tried my hardest to say it without him catching on that I was holding back tears, but of course he knew. He always did anyways. 

“What’s wrong?” He held me a little closer to his face. I just shook my head, making sure he wouldn’t be able to see the water in my eyes. What was wrong with me? Why was I even crying? 

I shook my head, biting the bottom of my lip. Why did he bring me here? Why did I say yes to this even? Why was I holding back my tears? I’ve tried preparing myself for months. I knew he was going to leave, and I’ve accepted that fact. So why was it so hard to believe it? 

Ryker cupped his hand a little more. I didn’t know what he was doing, but I don’t care. I was going to cherish what little time I had left with him. He’s given me these happy feelings I haven’t felt in such a long time. The memories. Why did it all have to be stripped away from me again? 

“Hey now, it’s alright, it’s alright. What’s going on?” Ryker tried comforting, a bit of a worried expression on his face. A couple tears fell down my face as I prepared my question that I needed an answer to. 

“A-are you, um, g-going to l-leave me?” 

A few second of silence was thrown between us as my heart threatened to jump right out of my chest. Ryker blinked a couple times before a soft smile appeared on his face, “What makes you think that?” 

My heart was beating faster. Was that a yes or a no? I couldn’t tell. I brought my knees closer to my chest as I searched for my response. I was terrified. Not of Ryker, but of what the answer to this question. But my mind was already set on his answer, and I knew it could be entirely true. 

“B-because I’m… me? I-I’m small and insignificant to you. Y-you don’t need me.” I buried my head again, covering my head with one of my arms and listening for his response. I didn’t want to look. I didn’t want to hear the words. Could I reverse time? Change everything that I’ve done to get to this point? Maybe then this wouldn’t be so hard. 

“I don’t remember saying any of that,” Ryker held me a little closer, “Nathan, little guy, it’s okay. I promise I don’t think anything like that of you. I’m not leaving, okay?” 

My heart stopped beating for a second as I peeked out, seeing his trademark smile. He meant it. He really did. I wiped away my loose tears, a nervous smile on my face. Now I was embarrassed. This was dumb. I was just being dumb. I thought I was getting the hang of controlling my thoughts, but apparently not. But still, my heart was beating fast. I was relieved at his answer. 

“Well now I f-feel stupid.” I softly laughed, facing him while on my knees. I stared down at his palm, trying to calm my own heartbeat down. It wasn’t really working, but Ryker was just as patient with me as he always has been. 

“It’s not stupid. I get it. A lot of people leave after they graduate. It’s fine.” Ryker explained, sighing and leaning back into the bench we were both on. I did the same, still wondering what we were doing here. My heart was still beating fast, but I finally had my answer, and that’s all I needed. Nothing else. I wouldn’t be alone anymore. Or at least for now. 

“Nathan, could you turn around real quick?” Ryker had asked, fixing his position a bit. I did as he asked, almost immediately met with his lips softly being pressed against me. I fell on my back from the slight push, my cheeks flushing a bright red and my heart somehow beating faster than before. It was over before I knew it as I quickly sat back up, my body a little shaky as my hand went through some of my hair, a little surprised at the gesture. Did Ryker just kiss me?

My cheeks flushed a deep red, seeing Ryker a little worried but also blushing just as much as I was, “S-sorry, I-I’ve never… kissed a human. I-I, um, didn’t hurt you, right?” 

A little squeak came out of my mouth. He kissed me. What do I do? Does that mean he likes me? I’m so confused. I mean I liked him. A lot. Am I mistaking my feelings for friendship? If that were true then why was my heart beating right out of my chest? Why was I blushing this much? I’ve never felt like this with anyone in my entire life. All I knew was that kiss was probably the best thing I’ve experienced in my entire life. 

“N-no.” My voice came out like a whisper as I tried my best to stand up on wobbly legs on his hand. I bit the side of my cheek  wondering if this was the right move, but all I knew was that this is what I wanted. All along. The way my heart would flip every time he said my name, or the way he would smile at me and his siblings. I was just so confused about it. 

Ryker was confused at what I was trying to do before I stood on my toes, trying to return the gesture, even if he can’t feel it. He lowered his face as I planted a short kiss on his lips the same he did to me, hoping he would get it. My legs gave out on me as I backed away, seeing Ryker bite the bottom of his lip soon after he felt me back away. 

I couldn’t think of anything else. Did he even know? Instead, a happy smile formed on his face as I tried to hold back a little laugh. I can’t believe we just did that. I can’t believe that this was even happening. This could all be some happy dream I’m having, but I knew it wasn’t. It felt real.

“I’m not… dreaming, right?” Ryker had asked, his face still a flush of red that was slowly going down. I shook my head, my heart beating amazingly fast. Good to know I wasn’t the only one who thought they were dreaming. But what do we do now? I’ve never been like this before. 

“Do you want to go to your house now?” Ryker had asked, pursing his lips as he planted his shoes on the ground, getting ready to go. No. I didn’t want to go to my house anymore. 

“Y-yours?” I smiled, in hoped that he’ll say yes. He laughed and nodded, taking the sidewalk back to his house. 

——————

The lights were off in his house as he quietly walked to his room. He placed me down on his nightstand where all of my makeshift stuff was. He never threw them away. Just for me. What are we now? Are we still friends? I don’t even know how this works. 

Ryker took off his hoodie, put on different shirt before turning on his lamp on his desk and turning off his lights. I stayed where I was at, wondering what I do now. I’ve never been in a relationship before. I don’t know how these things work. I don’t even know what to do. Was that bad? 

“Are you tired?” Ryker asked, sitting down on his bed while moving the covers and pillows to the way he likes. I shook my head, I wasn’t really, no. Not after what had just happened a few minutes ago. I was still a little confused, but at the same time happy. He really wasn’t going to leave me. 

“Well, I’m not really either.” Ryker laughed, bringing two fingers up to the part of his lower lips that I had kissed. Or at least tried to. I blushed a little. Was that bad? 

I climbed onto Ryker’s offered palm as he sat up against the head of his bed. I was covered by one of his hands like a blanket while also laying on his chest. Oh my heart will never get a break today- But I wasn’t saying that it was bad. If anything, today was the best day of my life. Nothing could change that. 

“Comfy?” Ryker laughed as I listened to his heartbeat, controlled and normal unlike my own. I didn’t know how to deal with any of this. I just snuggled up closer, hoping that it was fine. I was guessing it was when Ryker slid down, his head now resting on a pillow and his legs bent. Who knew that about a year ago I would have thought this was crazy to even think about doing, and yet, here I was. I was actually happy.

“You wouldn’t mind if I moved you, right?” Ryker had asked a hint of worry in his voice. 

“No.” I answered, getting in a better position for him to move me in. I would move myself if I had known where he wanted me, but anything that I was thinking of was not what he was thinking. And it only made my brain fry for just a few seconds. 

He lightly pinched me between two fingers, giving me another lighter kiss that practically covered my entire body before laying me back down. He laughed while I laid there, brain fried and flustered. I giggled a bit, snuggling closer and shutting my eyes. I’m glad to know that he likes me the same way I like him. 

Maybe I don’t wish to reverse time after all. 

——————

*Starts crying uncontrollably*

Thank you to everyone who’s read through all 13 chapters and stuck with me for so long! I appreciate every single one of you❤️

My first story is done though! Just in time for pride month too if you know what I mean :D Don’t worry, because I will definitely write some little scenes with these two in the future. How could I just throw these two away? NEVER.

Thank you everyone for reading, and I hope you enjoy whatever the next story will be. (I totally don’t already have characters and done some world building-) But thank you everyone!

Taglist: @da3dm

[starsenha]

DUET - home (chapter 11)

You trudged home, your thoughts swirling with frustration. Jay's sudden coldness had completely threw you off. You had been getting along pretty decently lately, but the fact that he prefered hanging out with Yuna out of all people instead of working with you made it even worse.

As you approached your doorstep, you tried to shake off the thoughts. There was no point in dewelling on it now, you just needed to rest and clear your head.

You pushed the door open and stepped inside, slipping off your shoes and hanging your bag. The house was mostly quiet, just the faint sound of TV playing in the living room. You mom was sitting on the couch, a cup of tea in hand.

"Yn? You're home early," your mom said, her eyebrows lifting in surprise. "Shouldn't you be at practice?"

You sighed, forcing a small smile as you walked over to the couch. "My partner canceled practice last minute, so i figure i'd take the evening to rest, I've been exhausted lately."

You mom's expression immediately shifted from surprise to disapproval. "Rest? You can't afford to waste time like this. If your partner canceled, you should be using this opportunity to practice on your own. You need to be at your best for regionals."

Your heart sank at her words, but you kept your head down, knowing better than to argue with her. "I know, mom," you said quietly. "But I'm really tired. I thought it would be better to take a break today so I can be more focused tomorrow."

Your mom set down her tea with a slight thud, her lips pursed in a thin line. “That’s not the attitude of someone who wants to be the best, Yn. You can’t just rest every time you feel a little tired. Your brother doesn’t make excuses like that, and look at how well he’s doing.”

You flicnhed at the mention of your brother, but you kept your gaze fixed on the floor. You had heard this comparison a million times before, and it never got any easier to swallow. "Yes, mom," you murmured, keeping your voice as steady as you could. "I'll do better."

Your mom didn’t respond, simply giving her a curt nod before picking up her tea again. You took that as your cue to leave, slipping away toward your room as quickly and quietly as possible. The last thing you wanted was to get into an argument, especially when you were already feeling down.

As soon as you were in the privacy of your room, you let out a long breath, leaning back against the door. The familiar comfort of your space didn’t do much to ease the tight knot of frustration in your chest. You wanted to scream, to cry, to do anything to release the tension, but instead, you just walked over to your bed and sat down heavily.

A few minuted later, you heard a know on the door and Riki poked his head in. "Can I come in?"

You looked up, managing a weak smile for your younger brother. "Sure, little thing. What's up?"

He stepped inside, closing the door behind him. He was still in his casual clothes, clearly having not gone to practice either. “I was just wondering why you’re home so early. I thought you had practice?”

You sighed, running a hand through your hair. “I did, but Jay canceled last minute. Something came apparently, so I figured I’d take the time to rest. Mom wasn’t too happy about it, though.”

Riki frowned, sitting down beside you on your bed. “She wasn’t happy? Why? You’ve been working your ass off. You deserve a break.”

You let out a humorless laugh. “Yeah, well, you know how Mom is. She thinks every minute not spent practicing is a wasted opportunity. I tried to tell her I was exhausted, but she just compared me to you again. Said you wouldn’t make excuses like that.”

Riki’s frown deepened. “That’s not fair. I didn’t go to practice today either, and Mom was the one who told me to rest. She said it was important for me to take care of myself so I don’t get burned out before regionals.”

Your heart ached at the blatant favoritism, but you forced herself to smile for Riki’s sake. “That’s great, Riki. I’m glad she’s looking out for you.”

Riki looked at you, his expression troubled. “Yn, it’s not right. You’re working just as hard—harder, even. You should be allowed to rest too.”

You shurgged, trying to brush it off. "Its whatever honestly. I'm used to it by now. I just need to keep pushing myself. It’s not like I can change Mom’s mind.”

He shook his head, clearly frustrated. “It’s still not fair. You shouldn’t have to deal with that. I wish I could do something about it.”

You reached out and ruffled his hair, your smile softening. “You’re sweet, little one. But it’s okay. I’ll be fine. I just need to rest tonight and get my energy back. I’ll be ready to go tomorrow.”

He sighed, but he nodded, leaning back against the headboard. “Just promise me you’ll take care of yourself too, okay? I don’t want to see you burn out.”

You nodded, feeling a warm rush of affection for your brother. “I promise, Riki. I’ll be okay. Thanks for checking on me.”

Dinner came quicker than you expected. You quietly picked at your food, your thoughts still lingering on the events of the day.

Your dad cleared his throat after a few bites of his mean, looking at you across the table. “So, Yn, how’s practice going? Are you and your partner ready for regionals?”

You perked up at the question, eager to share how things had been improving with Jay despite today’s hiccup. “Actually, practice has been going well. My partner and I have been working hard on our duet, and we’ve made a lot of progress. We’re really starting to—”

Before you could finish her sentence, your father cut you off, turning his attention to Riki. “That’s good, that’s good. Riki, how’s your solo coming along? You’ve been practicing that new routine, right?”

Your voice faltered, and you pressed your lips together, the words dying in your throat. You forced yourself to remain calm, even though the interruption stung. It was so typical—conversations about you always seemed to take a backseat to Riki.

Riki glanced at you, his expression apologetic, but he answered his father’s question. “Yeah, the solo’s going well. I’m trying to perfect that tricky move in the middle, but I’m getting there. I should have it down by the end of the week.”

Your dad nodded, looking pleased. “That's my boy. You need to keep pushing yourself, Riki. Regionals are just around the corner, and we can’t afford any mistakes.”

You swallowed her frustration and took a deep breath. You waited for a moment, hoping there would be a lull in the conversation so you could share your news. After a few more bites, you decided to try again.

“Oh, and I almost forgot to mention—I aced my literature exam this week! The professor said my essay was one of the best in the class,” You said, her voice tinged with pride. You hoped this small victory would be acknowledged.

But before your words could fully sink in, your mom, spoke up, completely ignoring your announcement. “Riki, have you decided on the costume for your solo? We need to make sure it complements your routine perfectly.”

Your heart sank as your mother’s words drowned out your own. You bit her lip, fighting back the disappointment that welled up inside her. It was as if your accomplishments outside of dance didn’t matter at all. You knew better than to argue or push the issue, but it didn’t make the hurt any less.

Riki noticed your reaction and tried to steer the conversation back to you. “Mom, Dad, Yn’s been working really hard too. Her duet is coming along great, and she’s also doing amazing in her studies. I think it’s awesome how she’s balancing everything.”

Your mom barely acknowledged Riki’s attempt. “That’s nice, Riki, but you should focus on your own performance. As for Yn,” she finally turned to you, “you need to remember that dance is what really matters. It’s good that you’re doing well in your studies, whatever theyr are, but you should be putting more effort into your routine. Regionals are coming up fast.”

You nodded silently, your appetite fading as the conversation continued without you. You knew there was no point in arguing; your parents had always made it clear where their priorities lay. The message was always the same—dance was the only thing that truly mattered.

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taglist: @sincerely-sunny @realrintaro @onlyhyunjin @mari-oclock @jooniesbears-blog @isa942572

[cubicle-eyes]

Knuckles

Edalyn Clawthorne x child!reader

Platonic, obviously

Reader is Eda's first adopted kid, right before King.

---

Eda is sat comfortably on the couch, King curled up on her lap, Luz and Y/N at school with their friends, safe and sound. Yep, today was gonna be a slow day of drinking Apple Blood and watching those human work out tapes again. She still didn't understand why they had a plot, though. King jumped when the door creaked open, and Y/N peeked through nervously. Eda sat up, furrowing her brows.

"Uh-uh, you're supposed to be at-"

Y/N steps fully through the door and Eda's jaw drops. King rushes over with her as she cups Y/N's face, examining the bruise and bloody nose.

"Oh hoho, I cannot wait to fight a kid. Wait, no, what happened?"

Y/N sniffled, and their lip started to quiver.

"I.. Me and... Luz was getting.."

"Where is she? Is she still at school? How did you get here without being caught? Titan, sit down, You're shaking like a leaf."

Y/N sits obediently, and Eda puts her hands on her hips, confusion lacing her features. Y/N grips the couch tightly, digging his nails into the fabric. Eda sighs, leaning over slightly to stare at the floor.

"Alright, start again, kiddo."

"Luz was getting.. Not really, uh, picked on but- Um, she wasn't happy because Boscha was making fun of her, so I maybe might've, uh, punched her? Then she retaliated with magic, but you said not to use magic for things like this because it wasn't fair so-"

"Hold on, hold on. So this Boscha girl was beating you up?"

"No! Well, yeah, but I deserved it! I did punch he- Mom?"

Eda had pulled a crow phone from her hair, calling the school. She stomped into the kitchen, and Y/N could hear her snarking off to the principal. King appeared with the first aid kit, placing a green and pink striped bandaid over their bruise.

"Your knuckles are pretty beat up for someone who only punched once."

"Well.. I didn't just sit there and take it, buddy. We're Clawthornes, not quitters. I.. did lose, though. Badly."

King giggled lightly, wiping Y/N's hands with a wet wipe before starting to pat the bloodied knuckles with some alcohol. Eda came back in.

"Okay! So I've been informed the both of you are suspended! Yay! Apparently you fought back pretty hard, kiddo. Good job. You get to stay home two days with mama Eda. Boscha is expelled for the rest of the week, since it's only Tuesday."

"Suspended?" Y/N breathes, shock widening their eyes. "I didn't-"

Eda sat down, putting her arm over Y/N's shoulder and rubbing their arm. King was almost finished decorating their hands with bandages that mostly did the job of covering the wounds.

"Relax, kid. Bump knows what he's doing. Just be lucky you didn't have my principal. Oh, whoa. You're crying, okay- What's wrong?"

"I have tests tomorrow! Plus, Boscha might- might be worse now that I got her in trouble! Luz, too. What if she's disappointed in me? Titan, I just met her and already failed."

Y/N sniffled and King frowned, nuzzling against their neck as they picked him up. Eda sighed, wiping Y/N's tears with her thumbs. She kissed their forehead, humming.

"It's okay. If that bii...ooty gets on your nerves again you tell me, and I'll handle it myself. You can make those tests up any time, too. They're just tests! And don't worry about Luz, you've met the ray of sunshine. She's gonna be so proud of you for standing up for her. Just like I am."

Y/N whimpered, this time out of pure love than sadness. Eda grinned, tilting her head slightly as Y/N wiped their own tears, laughing.

"Alright, alright. So, N/N, what mischief do you wanna get into over the next two days?"

"..let's go get some things from the Human Realm?"

"You got it! Marilyn and N/N are back in business!"

She stood, pumping her fist in the air. She turned back to Y/N as they played with King, moving the titans arms around and making him dance. She smiled.

"Y/N?"

"Yep?"

"You use your magic next time, and beat that bitch to a pulp!"

"MOM!" "EDA!"

---

💙

[pbandjesse]

Welp i thought I was doing pretty good today. Are three meals. Had a Popsicle. But just threw up so hardcore. That was not fun at all. I do honestly feel better after throwing up but man did that suck.

But thankfully for the majority of the day I felt good. It was mostly a good day. I did have very very strange dreams last night. But I did sleep pretty well overall.

When my alarm went off I was a little disoriented from the dreams, but I was okay. I got dressed and my hair felt very dirty and it wasn't helped by how humid it was outside. Obnoxiously humid. But it was fine. It would still be a good day.

We left here. James has loaded everything into the car already, which I appreciated greatly. We stopped at McDonald's for breakfast. It was nice to have my regular breakfast after so long. I didn't get a soda and I missed the combination but I thought it would be better if I didn't have so much sugar first thing. I would get a lemonade later on, when I felt like I wasn't hydrated enough.

Setting up was quick. James helped me but there was a lot of other stuff today that they had to focus on. It was skate day! The news was there! We had a bunch of extra vendors for the skate stuff. I loved how busy everything was and it brought in new and different people and that was just really great.

I was very excited when Blanche and her mom came and had a table. Blanche had a table with a million friendship bracelets and her mom had photos and paintings. It was so nice to have them.

Ann would get frustrated with some of our vendors today because they were arriving at 9, which is when we are supposed to be open and done setting up. But I still think it was a really nice and positive day.

I would focus on my temperature blanket today. After cutting all the July yarn yesterday I was determined to get that completed worked up. And it would take about 2 hours but I did it! And I was really happy about it. It was also really nice to show people what I was working on. Because even a few people who recognized the type of loom, they were really surprised that I can make panels on it and it was really cool to share that.

I would also finish the three squares for the little blanket I'm working on and I will probably get those sewn together tomorrow. I am really excited about all the work I got done.

And I made a few sales. I made $85. And I got my lemonade for free which made me very happy. James bought us some pies and snacks. And there was a really nice breeze. It was a good day.

I was happy to be done though. The last hour was pretty slow. I hate that I kept watching TikToks but I was just really bored! I would have some nice conversations but I was ready to go!

I worked up and loaded the car. And went inside the museum to hug on James. I would start helping check someone in but it was a weird one and James would tap back in to help. Perfect timing on my husband's part.

I would fill James in on my afternoon plans. Shake shack, five below, Ulta, target. I thought I might go to the craft store but I had to tap out after target.

The problem started at shake shack. At first it was great. I was really loving my sandwich. But I got halfway through and thought I was going to be sick. I sipped my drink and tried to be okay. I wouldn't force it. Instead packing my leftovers to go.

I drove to five below. Got myself a bunch of snacks. Alexi told me that sour stuff helps her stomach feel better when she feels quest. So I got this ridiculous sour gel. Which I used to love that kind of candy when I was a kid and I still like it now apparently. And I did find that it helped.

I would get myself two sanrio blind boxes. And then walked over to Ulta. Where I found the spin pins I needed to replace. And I got a new stick blush. The one I got a few months ago had glitter that I didn't know about. So I'm pretty happy that I found one without the highlight.

I walked over to target. I would get some frozen foods and a lemon. I walked around the rest of the store but didn't get anything else. I got what I needed and decided I needed to go home.

I sat in the car for a little. Opened my blind bags. Got a pompom purrien who is my favorite. And cooled off and caught my breath. And then headed home.

Google took me a really weird way home but it was fine. Got a parking space right outside our door. And was happy to be home.

I put the frozen stuff away. And took a shower. I was feeling a bit queasy and questionable. But the shower helped. Washing my hair helped a lot. And then I laid down and ate sour candy.

I was doing pretty good but the queasy feeling kept coming back. James would come home and would hang with me for a while. But eventually they went and made dinner. They had pasta. I had a quesadilla. Sweetp kept trying to steal it from me which was rude.

But I did not feel great. And that would continue. We laid in bed and James held me and I have found if they press on my side it helps the bad feelings. So we laid there like that for a long time.

I went to brush my teeth. I have had a dry bad taste in my mouth most of today. I think from being dehydrated. I was trying a tongue scraper that Jess got me when I was like. I'm going to throw up. And it was very bad and very upsetting.

James would run in and brought me some water but I was very very distressed for a bit there. But I drank some water. And brushed my teeth again. And I just had a little apple strawberry juice. And I feel a little better. Mostly I am just really tired.

Tomorrow I am hoping to sleep most of the morning away. Because I'm working a wedding from 2 to midnight. And I need to be up and ready to go! I plan on taking my anti nausea meds since today didn't go amazing. And I'll make sure I'm drinking water. And it will be a great time. There's going to be an alpaca there and I'm very excited about that.

So let's hope that this was just a one off and I'm going to be okay. I will feel better tomorrow.

I love you all very much. Send me good vibes. And send my mom congratulations because today she marks 41 years sober!! Incredible. I love her so very much and I'm proud of her for this accomplishment in self care and self restraint!! Love you mom!

Goodnight everybody!!

[clothyume]

Forgotten Homework Episode 8

Shu: "— And that’s what happened"

Kaoru: In other words, I can summarize what you said like this? 

You happened to come across a bus that was going to the ‘station’, so you headed there

Then, as you expected, Kiryu-kun got motion sick 

While Shu-kun was taking care of him, you didn’t notice that you’d missed your stop 

And now you’re in some unknown spot deep in the mountains… 

Shu: "Yes. It seems the ‘station’ that was written on the schedule was a station that’s no longer in use" 

Kaoru: …They’d do that? Well, I understand you were heading to the station to catch the train. I just didn’t expect you’d end up at an abandoned station 

Shu: "We were completely off the mark. We thought the station would bring us to a more familiar place than the bus stop"

Shu: "Well, it’s still fine if that’s all there is. The problems is we’ve lost our means of returning"

"Apparently the bus only comes twice a day to this abandoned stop"

"The bus we originally rode has already departed, and the next bus isn't until tomorrow"

"Even if we returned on foot we wouldn’t know which way to go, and Kiryu can’t even movie due to his car sickness" 

"That’s why I’m ashamed to ask for your help now"

Chiaki: Hmm. They really are in a pinch huh 

Mitsuru: …Is Kiryu~senpai okay? It’s tough not being able to walk 

Shu: "He doesn’t look okay. His face is fairly pale…"

Kuro: "...He’s just exaggerating… Urp"

Shu: "A face that looks like it’s about to vomit isn’t very convincing, Kiryu" 

Kuro: "Damn. How pathetic…"

Nagisa: …Let’s talk to the shooting staff. We can’t make decisions alone, including whether or not to continue filming 

Mitsuru: I’m worried about Oshisan-senpai. If they’re deep in the mountains there might be a disaster? 

Kaoru: I think they’re okay since they were able to contact us… What do you think the staff should do? 

They called us so it’s not an emergency…? 

Chiaki: (Quiet voice) The staff also seemed surprised that they ended up so far from the goal 

Nagisa: …Shu-kun. For now, try your best until the time limit is up 

Shu: "How am I supposed to do that!? There are country roads to my left and my right, and I don’t know which way to go"

Mitsuru: Oh, I have an idea! We just have to make where Oshisan-senpai is the destination! 

Chiaki: Huh? What do you mean? 

Mitsuru: See, we’re already right in front of ES, but there’s still lotsa time left, right?  

That’s why we use the remaining time to go to the place where Oshisan-senpai is! 

Kaoru: Ah, I get it. You’re creating a new challenge for those of us who reached the goal early

Nagisa: …I think it’s a good idea. I’m sure the programme will be happy that we have more footage 

Chiaki: Although, if we’re changing the goal, we can’t decide that on our own 

For now, let’s get back to ES and achieve the first goal of the programme, then we’ll tell the programme’s producer Tenma-kun’s proposal 

Can you hear me, Itsuki? Please wait a little longer until we come pick you up! We’ll definitely come rescue you! 

Shu: "Yes. Thank you"

Shu: …For now I want to believe that something will work out 

Kuro: Sorry, Ituski. I’ve caused a lot of trouble today…

Shu: It’s not just your fault, Kiryu. That said, since when did your motion sickness become so severe 

In the past, when you skipped school because you didn’t want to take supplementary lessons, I’d accompany you on the train to the neighbouring prefecture 

I don’t recall your motion sickness being this intense back then…? 

Kuro: Haha, oh that? I remember it well 

Back then I was always scolded harshly by my mom and your grandpops 

Two curious elementary schoolers messing around on the train 

Then once we got tired of messing around we’d fall right asleep. We’d end up at the last unmanned station before we knew it 

I didn’t know how to get home, and Icchan cried way too much. Even when I think about it now, I caused everyone around me to worry a lot 

*Sigh*... I never thought I’d made the same mistake, at this age 

It’s like I’m being reminded I haven’t changed since I was a kid 

I really am sorry, Icchan. Urp… 

Shu: If you’re going to keep apologising I’d rather you rest than talk 

Kuro: Sorry. I’ll do just that…

Shu: You fell asleep as if you were fainting. Honestly, you’re pushing yourself too hard

(At any rate, all he’s done today is apologise to me)

(Does that mean that in your mind, I’m still the ‘Icchan’ that needs to be protected?)

(...I understand that the reason your still try to protect me is because of your promise to your mother)

(In your memory, I was a foolish and delicate crybaby…) 

(Though I’m not the same as I was back then)

You, staff. Please keep an eye on Kiryu here. 

I’m going to explore the surrounding area a bit. Although Morisawa and the others are coming to help us, we don’t know when that will be

If there’s a bus stop, it’s possible there’s a village nearby

Worst case scenario, we negotiate staying overnight there. Otherwise, there may be a means of getting back to ES that we can use 

(Unlike the foolish crybaby I was back then, I’ve grown enough to help you in your weakened state… Ryu~kun)

Previous | Next

[baelpenrose]

Project Praetorian 38: Family Dinner

The kids celebrate the fruits of victory and glory in their first major battle, a big dinner that they bribed and bartered for and a large barbeque on base, including all the meal prep that goes into it. I had a lot of fun figuring out what everyone would do in this, and @canyouhearthelight was a lot of help.

Xavier 

His phone was buzzing and he answered it. “Casey, I don’t know where the charcoal is, Shiloh and Vergil aren’t back from the store yet. How’s the meal prep coming?” 

“I’m glad Mark’s as quick as he is with magnetic pulls because if he wasn’t Molly’s knife handling would already have us regretting that Shiloh isn’t here. How’s the pit coming?” 

“Jonathan grabbed the entrenchment tools and shoved me out of the way. He pretty much took it over - it’s almost done.” 

“The grill?” 

“Fuck’s sake, Casey, the suburban white girl is coming out, I’ll go check.” 

“This is the first party we’ve gotten to put on as a group in ages, let me have the control freak shit.”

“Speaking of control, Echo?”

“Her marinade is going great, whatever you’re grilling is going to be slathered in something awesome, chill.” 

“Cool.” He hung up and started jogging towards the armory - on their last leave, they’d swiped some good quality whiskey from a liquor store as a trade to get one of the mechanics down in maintenance to weld some scrap into a workable grill. Now it was time to pick it up. He had only gone about thirty yards before turning around and tapping Jonathan on the shoulder. “Hey, Jonathan. I’m gonna take over from you for a sec. I can finish up the pit, I’m gonna need you to go grab the grill.” 

As Jonathan casually hopped out of the pit and then handed Xavier the shovel, the two boys clapped each other on the shoulder. “Gonna be good food tonight, finally.”

“Hell yeah, brother.” Once Jonathan ran off and he was left working on the pit, he got another text, and he snatched the phone off his belt, this time noticing it was from Mark, on their group text with Echo.

Mark: alright, confirmation two weeks later, Smith and Franks have indeed found Echo’s little sister. Files are apparently available for your detection, Echo. 

Echo responded less than a minute later.

Echo: I talked to Vergil. If Imperator keeps tabs and gets her to where she’s safe, I’ll play along with Franklin. 

Xavier grinned. Everything was going their way. Supposedly, more people were going to be arriving late today, or maybe early tomorrow, and depending on when everything was finally ready, that meant the newbies were going to get one hell of a jumping in. 

He tore at the ground with the entrenchment tool, widening and deepening the pit just a little more until Vergil texted: We have the charcoal. Shiloh’s driving back - they got a bunch more stuff for us to eat as well. 

Molly

Her hand slipped on the knife while slicing the potatoes. She felt an abrupt pull and heard Mark swear as her fingers were saved for the fifth time by someone else’s super power. 

Casey chuckled. “Okay. So when we buy the big fortress for the whole corps, the kitchen knives all have to be steel rather than ceramic.”

Molly flushed. “Or we could get a mandolin slicer.” 

Casey grunted. “Or we could get a mandolin slicer, yeah. Or both. Actually.” 

“Also, for the record, isn’t this kind of problem usually because of shitty knives rather than unskilled cooks?” Mark asked. “I seem to remember my mom saying something about that.”

Casey nodded. “Yeah, but we’re all using the same bad knives in this kitchen, and you’ve had to lean on your powers once to save your fingers, you haven’t had to save me at all. It’s not that these knives aren’t making it worse, Molly, and we absolutely need to get a proper sharpener in here, but like. You haven’t had a lot of practice in a kitchen, you know?”

Molly shrugged, embarrassed. “Yeah, only child, I guess.”

Casey nodded. “That explains it. We’re gonna get in more practice, you’re fine. Here, hold a little more like this.” She walked over and corrected Molly’s grip. “Should make it a little easier. I’m gonna finish getting the cornbread into the oven, then…actually can you swap me and make the honey butter? Just whip warm butter in with honey? I’ll take over veggie duty.”

“Thank god,” Molly heaved in relief, laying the knife down. “Pretty sure I can’t hurt myself with a whisk and a bowl.”

Echo grunted. “I’ll run slaw once I’m done with the marinade.”

Molly felt lost, and walked over to where the butter was, threw it in the bowl, and lathered it in honey before beginning to whisk. “So, new people?”

“Yeah, apparently the new conscripts are coming in either tonight or tomorrow morning.”

“Four of them, I heard.” Echo said, casually indulging in her habit of disclosing information she wasn’t supposed to have. 

Molly didn’t miss the way Mark’s head snapped over. “When did you hear that?”

“Shortly before we started cooking, actually. I wanted to tell you and Xavier, but we were all running around.” 

“No worries. Glad it was here and not in front of staff.” 

“Heh. I would never make you look unprepared in front of staff.” She shrugged. “Everything else about them must be on-paper, eyes-only, so I don’t have it.” 

Molly shrugged. “Music tonight?”

“Yours or Xavier’s?” Mark asked. “Either way, yes. It’s a party. On our turf.” 

“Bit of both - how much dubstep violin combination have you heard?” 

“We’ve got live music now? Praetorian original? Everything about that is awesome.” Casey’s voice came from behind her, even as Molly heard the oven open and shut. The other girl crossed the kitchen and took up a knife next to Mark.  “That’s genuinely cool, Molly. I’m so excited to hear it!” 

Molly flushed. “Really?”

“Really. It’s cool that you can do that. It’s awesome that you’re building that up. It’s cool that it’s something we can do to welcome new people in. It’s awesome that you and Xavier are doing that together, and it's amazing that in the midst of the hell that is Imperator and the war we’ve been drafted into, you’re able to hold onto that part of yourself. I’m proud of you.” 

Molly looked down as she kept whisking the honey butter. As she thought about it, it did seem that everyone held to something. Casey and Mark still practiced what parts of their faith they could, with Mark maintaining little hints of hobbies he had and Casey keeping her skirts and her love of cooking. Xavier had his hobbies and music, Echo her fashion sense, Shiloh their refusal to get their hearing surgically repaired even now that the mutations made it possible. Even now, Jonathan, Vergil, and Shiloh were being encouraged to find things that they could have for themselves that Imperator couldn’t challenge, couldn’t force, couldn’t use. She was happy to make the music hers. 

Casey jumped as Mark made a choked noise and a fast gesture, leading to Casey’s knife sliding back and forth rapidly. “Oy vey! All that shit to Molly about how good you are in the kitchen!”

“I got distracted! Phone buzzed.”

Molly smirked. “A true master wouldn’t get distracted.”

“I thought you said you were an only child.”

“What’s that got to do with it?”

Echo snorted. “You didn’t need much time to start smarting off like a proper little sister, that’s all. Anyway. Casey, who texted and what’d they say?”

“Shiloh and…they’re here.”

“Got it. Uh…Shiloh and Verg are coming up, so I’ll head down and light the charcoal. Once it’s ready then I’ll come back up. Xavier and Jonathan are gonna start grilling once the grill is ready.” 

Molly stood away. “Honey butter look ready?” 

Casey nodded. “Yeah, looks perfect. Uh…we got the potatoes chopped, get them boiling and once they’re boiled can you get them mashed? And get the cornbread out of the oven when the timer goes off.” 

She headed off and Molly started gathering up the potatoes into a pot, filling it with water and setting it on the stove to boil. “Okay, so…”

Shiloh rushed in, already setting another massive pot on the stove to boil for macaroni, and signing. Vergil was signing back, taking up a knife before being casually displaced by Shiloh. They began slashing veggies rapidly for Molly and Vergil to glaze. Echo took her leave to carry down the meat - grabbing Vergil to help her with the process. 

Molly glanced at Mark. “So. What do you think’s gonna happen when the new people get here?”

“I’m taking all that a step at a time,” he confessed. “But I expect we’re gonna get them situated to working with us, like we did with everyone else. Probably easier for them than it was for you, since they’re coming into a big meal and not getting scooped after a massacre.” He winced apologetically. “And easier than it was for Vergil, since they aren’t getting straight up black bagged and we already crossed off Volkov.” 

Even now, having actually stood to battle and killed, it still made her shudder how casually the older Praetorians discussed having killed other humans. How Volkov’s death was always discussed as simply an unpleasant chore rather than anything truly upsetting. 

“I get that.” She said, softly. “I mean - do you have any idea of how or when our next mission will be?”

“No. I know that we have our official ranks, but at a guess that was expedited as a show of good faith by Franklin, not preparation. This war is on the enemy’s timeline, not ours.” 

Molly winced at that reminder. “Okay.” She finished glazing a row of asparagus. “Did we need anything else?”

“Uh….Shuck that corn if you could, then I think I’m gonna wrap it in foil, actually.” 

The timer went off and Mark wrapped his hands in mitts to retrieve it.

***

Vergil

Xavier was scratching small patches of new skin on his arms in ways that indicated Shiloh had had to work on small burns from grilling, and everyone was helping bring out massive heaps of food. Curtis and Leon had been flatly forbidden from being involved in meal prep, but finally sat down at the feast - along with a small group of base staff. A squad of troopers who had been involved in helping smuggle various cooking material onto base, who Curtis had deployed with before the hell of Imperator and who he had vouched for, who were, even now, standing in full battle gear with bayonets fixed as though daring anyone to interfere with the meal. Their pay was in a share of the food.

Vergil, for his part, was in sensory heaven, fully amping his sense of taste with a slowly enhanced control of his powers to savor every bite, heaping his plate high. Every once in a while, Casey would gesture at the fire and make it flare for a bit of light, but for the most part, they were focusing on getting more food out. 

“So, wait, the Collins - they’re gonna be a good place for my sister, right?”

“Yeah. They’re gonna be fine for your sister. Best foster home I ever had.” Echo had asked him now, a few times, and he was happy to assure her. 

Echo smiled, and laughed. “Goddamn. We’re winning today. Given how often shit goes sideways, let’s enjoy it before any higher power notices.” 

Vergil started laughing, and he could hear Curtis and the troopers talking. “Wait, hang on,” one of the soldiers was saying. “The oldest one is seventeen? I knew the Praetorians were young, but jesus.”

“You didn’t know?”

“I knew Imperator was conscripting teenagers. I didn’t know…How old is the little blonde one?”

“Thirteen.”

“Fuck, man. We working for one of those West African warlords these days? Sarge, how long have you known?”

“Since I got forced to train them. They’re good kids.” 

Another man spoke up. “Fuck me, it’s like the Congo thing all over.”

“Nah, it’s worse.” 

“I have kids older than the two youngest.”

“No, Corporal. Your daughter is the same age as the boy who gives the orders to that little outfit, and the girl who manages all their intelligence gathering. Give you an idea?” 

Vergil forced himself to listen into something else as he shoved more cornbread into his mouth. He didn’t want to think about how much easier someone else’s life was. The cornbread that Casey had made was perfect - smooth, sweet, warm, and the honey butter melted over it perfectly. “Casey…this is amazing.”

“Thanks, but actually, Molly made the honey butter.” 

The ribs were spectacular. Sticky, sweet, and spicy. Echo hadn’t been overhyping the sauce she’d made. Nor had they underpaid the bribe. 

Shiloh was talking to Jonathan - and he was proud to say he could finally follow their rapid signing. “Jonathan, damnit, I know it doesn’t hurt, you’re still burned and I want to fix it, hold still.” Jonathan held still as Shiloh put their hands over his arm and froze for a moment, then let go.

Jonathan abruptly hugged Shiloh, picked them up, and put them on a bench, throwing a stack of food in front of them. “Eat. You haven’t all day, any more than I have, and I know healing takes a lot out of you.”

“You’re lucky you’re my brother.”

“That’s why I’m the one who makes you do stuff, yeah. No one else can touch you.” 

Vergil smirked. He’d had that explained to him a few times. Praetorians were “family” - Jonathan and Shiloh were siblings, as much or more than blood could make anyone, and he pitied anything that tried to tell them they weren’t. 

Leon came over. “How’re you doing?”

“Amazing, Leon. This is perfect. Thanks.”

“I honestly didn’t do any of this. This is all Mark and Echo, honestly.” Unspoken for a moment was the dreadful truth everyone knew, that Mark had told everyone, even Vergil. At this point, Leon was well aware of the capricious nature of Imperator and her place in it. “There are several of you that myself and Curtis are going to ask about legal guardianship of, if you want it. Not that it really matters, because you’ll be legal adults before the war ends. But it means that legally, if we can make it happen, we’ll have more latitude to negotiate for you in cover story stuff like school. Plus we can open up bank accounts for you outside Imperator and put money in for college that Imperator can’t touch.” 

“Which ones?”

“You. Molly. Jonathan. Shiloh. Echo.”

“Aren’t Shiloh’s parents still alive?”

Leon gave a wan smile. “Curtis explained to the squad who are about to be deployed as security to Aventine, how Shiloh came to be a Praetorian. I suspect that’s temporary. Accidents happen. Especially in Imperator.” 

“For us?” Vergil was confused.

“After that last battle? Even if someone wasn’t morally disgusted by what happened there, Shiloh saved a lot of people whose life is being able to act effectively and let them remain able. Just being on Shiloh’s good side means something to people now.”

Vergil rolled that over. “Yeah, uh…go for it. So, hey. Question. Do you know anything about the new conscripts? Echo says we’ve got four coming?”

“You know more than I do, please review ‘Stricken and Gideon are doing what they can to lock me out.’”

Vergil winced as Leon stood up. “Enjoy the night. I’m going to go grab a drink with Curtis. Have fun with the others. You guys earned this.” 

Vergil jogged over as Xavier stood up and grabbed Molly, who was already unlimbering her violin.

“PRAETORIANS!” Xavier thundered, his voice shaking the tables with unnatural volume. “We fought the aliens in their own ship, and we kicked their asses! We’re now enjoying the fruits of our victory, and to celebrate, me and Molly put something together, a quick reminder of what we can do with our powers when the war ends.”

Vergil froze. Was Molly already putting on a concert? Already? 

A thrum that started in his bones and slowly picked up to something fast, something that got his blood pumping, only to have Jonathan twirl him out of his seat and get all the Praetorians stomping around. Then Molly twirled her bow and added in, the bow whipping back and forth across the strings and filling the air with more music, music that made the air itself vibrate as Molly amplified it, intertwining the sounds with what Xavier was creating, with their own movements, with everything.

The troopers started to chant, and started joining in. 

Vergil grabbed a case of soda and swigged, twirled by Shiloh. Then by Echo. At one point, Molly, seeming to want to show off, set her violin down and spun herself into a dance with both Casey and Echo and let her power alone keep the echoes of her music flowing through the night until she cut back out, swept up her violin and cut right back into the music without skipping a beat, timing in with her own echoes. Xavier jumped in the dance with Shiloh, first. 

Mark and Casey danced by the fire, Casey flaring the fire behind them, and Mark casually repelling them away from the iron of the grill to give them more distance than would otherwise have been possible on little jumps. 

Vergil stopped, grabbed a little more food, and ran back to the dancing, and one of the troopers pointed. 

Curtis was picking up his sidearm. 

Vergil glanced over and Curtis shook his head. “Couple staff. Not your problem. We’ll tell them you’re not available. Promise.” 

Gideon and Stricken were approaching. Vergil went back to the dance, swinging in time with Casey. Then with Mark.

He saw Mark and Xavier dancing for a moment, then found himself with Jonathan, barely keeping up with the larger boy, who abruptly, seemingly just to show off, took a step back and vaulted the firepit in a backflip. 

Then Vergil began picking up a thrum of rotor blades and turned around.  A helicopter was coming in. 

He pointed out. He could hear Mark swearing. Then Xavier elevated everyone’s voices. “Alright, everyone. Look alive. We got some new siblings to welcome.” 

[mangywayway]

I'm so sorry I really need to rant because this is getting ridiculous (family issues)

Mom came home angry of course, and I asked her to explain what the hell happened today (it's always the same stuff but apparently every 3 to 5 day the bomb goes off between her and my brother anyways) and outside of the usual discourse that mom wasn't a good mom, that my brother tries to do things that would help all of us ((as if putting the entire family in gigantic debt plus one day saying me and mom should sell our home and then changing idea again the day after etc wasn't enough already)) but apparently me and mom are too afraid to look at the future ((???)) and we aren't helping him enough (like bruh, mom is working for you for free??? We live in separate houses and we ask for nothing??? He has more than a 2k debt with me alone so really what the fuck he wants more??? I have been studying for the last 4 years and I have been paying everything with my money I earned from work???) and that we aren't respecting his daughter (bc tomorrow they are throwing a party for her FIRST YEAR and they called like 50 ppl ((bruh, I'm sorry but if you are in crisis the hell are you throwing a big party for considering she'll not even remember it BECAUSE SHE'S 1 YEAR OLD)) and mom didn't want to go considering all the insults he threw at her. And he full went "WELL SHE'S YOUR NIECE YOU SHOULDN'T TREAT HER LIKE THAT!1!!!1!" as if he's not using her as a fucking weapon when something happens (as if both me and mom don't spent many hours babysitting her and getting/asking nothing back from it).

Cherry on top, apparently Thursday (bc all of this has been brewing since that day) he said that I should go work in a factory. BRUH ARE U SERIOUS? I have been working for the last 5 YEARS; I work from end of March to September nonstop while also studying and getting my degree, and again, I PAY FOR EVERYTHING WITH MY OWN MONEY. I NEVER ASKED HIM FOR ANYTHING AT ALL. Like bruh, what do you expect? That even if, EVEN IF, I go to work in a factory do you expect from me to give you my money? Bruuuuh

And all of this said by the same guy who was literally asking for another 10k debt with the bank because HE NEEDED (not wanted or was thinking, NEEDED) to get married. I'm honestly speechless. This has been going on for so long that at this point I mostly ignore it but holy shit if this is fucking exhausting.

I should draw a fucking comic with all this stuff happening in my life because seriously, I can't believe I need to live with all this drama (my brother is fucking 33 y/o btw so he's a full grown ass adult :)))) )