#(i could fry an egg on my laptop) so :((((((((

[leatherbookmark]

gotta flaunt your assets

[inkykeiji]

clari, what types of laptop(s) do u work on/game on

for gaming i use my alienware m17 and for work i switch between my ipad and my ~vintage~ 2012 macbook pro hahaha

[heartfeltcierra]

Dude where's my submarine? Part 2 of Isekaied Law X Female Reader

Part 1- Here Part 3- Here

Masterlist

AN- I'm working on the 3rd and final part currently, hopefully I'll have it up sometime next weekend!

Word count 3.5K

!!Dressrosa arc spoilers!!

Warnings/Content- Law almost burns your house down, Light cursing, Angst (Abandonment issues), Modern day content and references, Mentions of violence, Driving without a license (Guess who) , Mentions of suggestive music and suggestive content.

Enjoy ʕ •ᴥ•ʔゝ☆

 

The smell of something burning jolted you from your peaceful dreams. Oh no. You jump up from the bed and run to the spare bedroom Law was in.

 “Law get up!” You slam the door open only to see the bed neatly made. He’s not here.

 “ROOM.” You faintly Law’s voice.“SHAMBLES.” In the blink of an eye you were in the smoke filled kitchen standing beside an irritated Law.

 “What happened?” There were a bunch of ingredients out on the countertops and a frying pan that had flames erupting from it. “OH HELL.” You grab the pan and run it over to your kitchen sink. More smoke fills the kitchen as the fire is doused by water. Crisis averted. “Law are you okay?” 

 “Yeah, but I can't say the same about the eggs." You could tell from his tone and flushed cheeks that he was embarrassed beyond belief. “I wanted to return the favor since you cooked for me last night, but…” He points over to your laptop that sat on the kitchen table. “I got carried away, I’m truly sorry Y/N.” 

 “Accidents happen, don’t worry about it. As long as you're okay.” You look at the pan and see no trace of egg, just a inciarated mass stuck to the bottom. “I can’t tell you how many times I’d put a pizza in the oven and forget about it. Needless to say, I've about burnt my house down plenty of times. Don’t sweat it.” Law seems grateful that you're not angry with him. “I’ll go out and get us something to make. I need to grab a few more things anyway since you’ll be here for a while!”

 “Mind if I go with you?”

 “Surel. I’ll go get ready and I’ll be right back down.”

~~~~

 “What’s this?” Law points at your parked car.

 “It’s my ‘ship’ so to say. But it’s actually called a car!” You unlock the doors with the remote, causing the headlights to blink. “In this world there are plenty of things used for transportation.  We have trains that can go across the entire country, metros in the larger cities, and even airplanes that can take you just about anywhere in the world!”

 “Wow.” His lips were slightly parted in awe. “What’s its name?”

 “Umm.. The Honda civic?” Law does a few circles around the car, surveying the unfamiliar vessel. He’s so cute. “Wait until you see the inside!”  You get into the car followed by Law.

 “I won’t lie.” Law watches as you start the engine up.. “This is pretty cool.” 

 “It is. Not to mention it's also really good on gas and in this world that says a lot because gas prices are crazy expensive and-” You look over and see Law paying you zero attention. He was too busy playing with the AC buttons to listen to your economic rant.

~~~~

 You drive down the road as Law plays with every button in the car. It was understandable, because if you ever ended up on his ship you’d explore it top to bottom. I’ve got an idea!

 “Let me show my favorite thing about the car.” You click the button that turns the radio on. The familiar upbeat pop song puts a smile on your face. “I love this song!” Word for word you sung the lyrics not caring one bit about the fact Law was right beside you. When the song ended you glance over at him to see his face was red all the way to the tips of his ears. “Law are you okay?”

 “Are lyrics like that normal?” Reality hit you. You had just sung a very suggestive and raunchy song right in front of him. You join him in blushing. I wonder what kind of face he’d make if I played WAP?

~~~~

 “So this is It.” You lock your car door and point at the blue and beige building. “Walmart~This is where you can get just about anything. Food, clothes, hygiene products, gifts, you name it, they got it.”

 “Wow…” He let out a low whistle. You smile at his bewilderment and continue walking in.

 “If you're surprised now just wait until you see the insi--” Your words get stuck in your throat when a car starts to back up right in front of you. It was pulling out too fast for you to react.

 “Y/N!” It felt like your life flashed before your very eyes. The car was inches away from hitting you, but a pair of strong arms pulled you away before it could.

 “Watch where you're walking dumbasses!” The person in the car reaches a hand out to flip you and Law off before speeding away.

 “I’ll kill that bastard.” Law grits his teeth as he holds your trembling body closer to him. It took you a moment to process that you almost got killed. 

 “It’s okay Law.” You look up at him with watery eyes. “I’m a little shaken up, but I’m not hurt and killing people is very frowned upon here.” His grip on you loosens so you can pull back. You wipe the forming tears out of your eyes. “It would be pretty embarrassing for my death to have been in a Walmart parking lot, so thanks for saving me.” You joke, trying to lighten the mood.

 “I’m glad you're alright. Still…..” 

 “It's alright Law. Let’s go on in.” Trying to change the subject, you take a few steps forward but stop when an arm wraps around your back.

 “Stay close to me in case something like that happens again.” Law must have sensed your nervousness, the angry look was replaced by his signature smirk. “But if it does I can’t make any promises on whether or not I’ll let them live.”

 ~~~~

 “This place really does have everything.” You watch as Law soaks in all of the surroundings.

 “It sure does.” You hum. “Feel free to grab whatever you want.”

 You and Law walk around without any rhyme or reason. From time to time he would stop to look at something. Your favorite thing so far is when he saw a one piece t-shirt. You could tell he was a little salty about him not being on it. 

 “Y/N.” Law leans down to grab your attention. “Why are people staring?” You look around the aisle and see that people were indeed fact staring and you knew why.

 “Your really handsome Law so of course people are going to stare.” Crap I said that outloud?

 “So you think I’m handsome Y/N?"

 “Was the shirtless figure and stories I've written about you not enough proof?” You playfully nudge your hip into his side.

 “Oh it was.” His eyes lock onto your blushing face. “But what makes you think they aren’t staring at you?” 

 “When I say this please know I’m not fishing for compliments. But for this world I’m nothing special.” You open one of the freezer section doors to retrieve a pint of ice cream. “I don't think I've mentioned, but the beauty standards in this world are quite high.”

 “Looks aren’t everything Y/N. But I think you're pretty. And weirdly charming.” The pint of ice cream in your hand almost falls into the floor. Law just called me pretty and (weirdly) charming?  “Plus you're a good person. Although I don’t know much about you yet, that much I can tell.” He grabs the ice cream from your hands and puts it in the cart.

 “Thanks.” You have to turn away to hide the giddy smile plastering your face.

 Little did you know Law could see your wide smile thanks to the reflection of the freezer's glass door. How cute

 ~~~~

 The next morning

 You woke up on the couch with Law sitting on the other end. That’s right, we stayed up watching a medical drama. He was looking at  something on your laptop with an evil smirk. What did he find this time?

 “That’s a pretty sinister look you got going on Law?” You poke his leg with your foot to get his attention. He turns his head before spinning the screen towards you.

 “I could watch this all day.” You squint your eyes to read the video's title. ‘Doflamingo getting his ass kicked to dubstep music- 10 hour loop.’ “I wish it was me in all honesty, but I do enjoy seeing that bastard get his ass handed to him by Strawhat.”

 “I’m sure you do.” You refrain from laughing. It was hilarious seeing how satisfied he looked every time Luffy’s foot kicked the side of Doflamingo’s head. “Want to know something kind of funny Law?” He pauses the video and nods. “So there was an episode in the Dressrosa arc titled "Law Dies - Luffy's Raging Onslaught!”. When I saw the title I started balling my eyes out. I thought you were going to die.” It is funny to you now, but back then you were going through all the stages of grief at once.

 “I thought I was going to die back then too.” Law shuts the laptop and places it back on the coffee table. “But, I’m glad I didn’t. It’s not what he would have wanted.” 

 “You're talking about Cora, aren’t you?” Law nods. 

 “Yeah, I am.” A bittersweet smile forms on Law’s lips. “He was my savior. He got me out of a dark mindset. I owe everything to him.” He turns his head to face you. “Did you ever have anyone like that in your life?”

 “Well if I’m being honest.” Not one real person comes to mind. Everyone in your life has left or abandoned you. But there was still someone who got you through some hard times. “As odd as this may sound, It’s kinda you.” His eyes widened at your declaration. “You are my favorite character for a reason. There’s been many times I’ve had a bad day and seeing you would make me feel better. It's weird to explain but someone told me once that humans in my universe can’t tell the difference between real people and fictional people. Our brains process them as if they were real. So it’s probably the reason why…” 

 “Well I am real.” Law held his hand up. His words remind you that the character you adore is literally a few feet away from you in the flesh. You scooch over to him and bring your hand up to his. “See?” You smile feeling his warm hand against yours. “I may not be from this universe, but I’m still real and I will always be.” 

 “Yeah. You're right.” You pull your hand away and wipe a few tears from your eyes. 

 “Are you crying?” Law asked with concern in his voice.

 “Yeah, but I’m okay.” They weren't sad tears, they were more tears of relief and comfort than anything. “Fun fact about me, I cry easily.” You laugh and dry the rest of the tears off with your sleeve. “I’m sorry I dampened the mood, but I do have an idea to lighten it. And I think you’ll like it.”

 “What do you have in mind?”

 “I say me and you go out.” He shoots you a smirk as if to say ‘go on’. “Have you ever had hibachi?”

~~~~

 Seeing how cute you look in the mirror brought a smile to your face. Since you were going out with Law you got a little dressed up for the occasion .You went with a (F/C) dress that compliments your body's shape and a cute pair of sandals. After one last glance over you walk downstairs to wait on Law.

 You walk to your front door only to see Law already dressed and waiting for you. He turns around to face you and Oh my God.. To say he looked good would be such an understatement. He wore the dark maroon button up you got him with the sleeves rolled up, exposing his arm tattoos. He also had on the jeans you secretly wanted to see him wear. They may look like a simple pair of black jeans, but the silver chains decorating his thighs made them stand out.

 “Are you ready to go?” Law waves his hand in front of your face in an attempt to snap you out of your trance.

 “Oh right.” Judging from the smirk on his face, he knew you were checking him out. It’s not my fault you look like a model. “Let’s go.” You grab your car keys and purse before heading out the door.

~~~~

 “Here we are!” You got out of the car with Law and stood in front of the restaurant. “Are you ready?” 

 “Of course I am.” 

~~~~

A few moments later…

 “Y/N why is the food on fire?!” Law leans back in his chair as if the flames were going to get him. I thought you were ready?

 “It’s okay Law.” You place your hand on his back. “I’ll protect you from the big bad onion volcano.”

 “Is he okay?” The hibachi chef laughs seeing how skittish Law was.

 “Yeah he's fine." You laugh and give Law a few pats on the back. "He acts like he’s not from this world or something.”

 “Here.” The chef held up the bottle filled with sake in front of Law. “A little something to calm your nerves.” He hesitates for a moment but opens, letting the chef send the sake right into his mouth. The chef stops once Law’s mouth is full and goes right back to cooking. His golden eyes stare into your soul as he swallows the liquid in one gulp. That was kinda hot. He wiggles his index finger, motioning you to lean closer to him.

 “I hope teasing me was worth it.” His voice was low in your ear. What does that mean? “And the sake in your world sucks.”

 You spend the rest of your (last) meal thinking just what diabolical thing Law was going to do to you. Is he going to chop my body up? Or maybe he’ll take my voice box? Or…

 “Y/N are you ready to go?” Law’s voice pulled you from your thoughts.

 “Oh yeah.” You stood up with Law. “Thank you for the food, it was delicious!” 

 “You're welcome. I hope you and your boyfriend have a goodnight!” You and Law look at each with wide eyes, but neither you or him corrected the man.

 ~~~~

 “So did you like the food?” You buckle up and turn the engine on. Please don’t kill me.

 “I did, but don’t think for a second that I forgot about you teasing me.” Your body freezes up at his words. I wonder what kind of flowers will be at my funeral?  “ROOM.” Your eyes slam shut. Goodbye cruel world..  “SHAMBLES.” You open your eyes to see you're still alive and intact, but you are now in the passenger seat. 

 “Law! You don’t know how to drive?” You panic seeing him put the car in drive. “That and you don’t have a driver's license? What if we get pulled over?” 

 “Sure I know how, I’ve watched you do it enough to figure it out.” Law gives the car a little gas. “And what’s the big deal of not having a license and getting pulled over?”

 “Umm I don’t know Law, maybe it’s the fact WE'D GET ARRESTED.” Your eyes watch his every move like a hawk. 

 “Have you forgotten I’m a pirate Y/N? Plus I have the advantage over everyone in this world.” He was right. No one could stop Law with his devil fruit power. “So relax. It will be okay.” You roll your eyes at his nonchalant attitude.

 “Fine. Just be careful.” Law smirks triumphantly and continues driving. Despite your initial fear, Law was actually a good driver. His movements were smooth and calculated, very fitting for his character. He was gentle with the brakes, (And unlike most drivers) he used the turn signals. You can’t help but be jealous seeing how he was a true natural.

 “Aren’t you going to sing?” Law gestures towards the radio. 

 “Do you want me to?” You raise your brow suspiciously.

 “Yeah I do. Maybe something different this time though.” He smirks remembering all the dirty words that came from your mouth the other day.

 “Sure, let me hook my phone up.” You plug your phone in and scroll through your playlist. A smile forms on your lips seeing the title of your favorite slow songs. The soft melody comes through the speakers as you sing. 

 In that moment Law didn’t care if you sounded like an angel that had freshly ascended from heaven or if you sounded like two pieces of metal grinding together. He was just happy to hear you doing something you enjoy. 

So she likes to sing?

~~~~

 It had been a few days since you and Law went out. In that time you’ve grown more comfortable with each other. He’s opened up to you about things from his past, even telling you things that the show never went over. He also told you all the stories from his early years of being a pirate and how he met Bepo and the rest of the crew. With that being said you’ve also been spilling more details about yourself. Everything from embarrassing stories from your childhood, the questionable things you did as a teenager and even a few funny stories from your current adult life. 

  Despite all the fun your having, your heart hurts knowing you only have a little time left with Law.  Having him around reminded you how nice it was to have someone to talk to. But when he's gone… I need to live in the moment and quit thinking about what’s to come.

"You seem lost in thought Y/N." You turn your attention to Law who's sitting at the other end of the couch. "What's on your mind?" You.

"It's nothing." You lie and go back to scrolling through your phone.

"You really think I'm going to buy that?" Law made his way over to you and took your phone from your hands."Talk to me."

"Well." Your eyes stray away from his fierce gaze. "I was just thinking about how boring things are going to be when your gone."

"Way to kill the vibes Y/N." You laugh hearing Law copy your lingo. "But I've been thinking about some things myself."

"What's on the surgeon of deaths mind?"

“I do go back to my world in two days...” His tone turns serious. “And you’ll be alone again and the thought of that has been bothering me.” You frown. I know I will. “With that being said. I need you to promise me that you will go out and try to make some friends." His request floors you. The painful memories of people leaving you and abandoning you come flooding in, but a tattooed hand pulls you out before you can drown. "Things may not work out at first but keep trying. I'm sure there are people out there that are just as weird and dorky as you." Law teases to clear the building tension in the room.

 “Is there something wrong with me being weird and dorky?" You give Law a heavy dose of side eye.

"Actually." Law leans in a little closer to you ear. "I like it." You could feel his hot breath against the shell of your ear. "I like it alot." He blows into you ear causing you to jerk away from him.

You retreat to the far end of the couch while nervously watching him. "Are you done teasing me?" The devilish smirk on his face said it all. His tattooed hand grabs a pillow placing it next to him. "Law what are you doing?

"Whatever I want to." "ROOM." Dammit. "SHAMBLES." Your body takes the pillows spot next to Law. "Now." Your heart felt like it was going to leap from your chest as he lazily wraps a arm around your shoulders. "Do you think you can keep that promise?"

"Yeah, I will. But only if you stop teasing me." A satisfied hum comes from Law hearing your answer.

"Good. And in what way am I teasing you?" Law tries to sounds innocent knowing full well the affect he has on you. "Also you might want to breathe before you black out."

"My breathing is just fine. thank you." I need to calm down.

"Your a bad liar Y/N." You were about to defend yourself but every function in your body stopped working as his fingers ghost around to the side of your neck. "But this tells me everything I need to know." Two fingers tap over your pulse point. "Tachycardia is a very dangerous condition if left untreated, luckily for you I'm a Doctor~"

"Well Doctor, what is the cure for it?" You say sarcastically.

"ASMR videos of people cutting soap should do the trick. " He grabs the laptop from the coffee table and pulls up youtube. "Just so you know my medical expertise comes at a high cost and I expect you to pay in full." You roll your eyes and relax against his chest.

"Just bill my insurance."

[your-divine-ribs]

Bonfire Night (Dad Van)

Words: 1.8k

November’s a way off but I still have a few Dad Van headcanons to post // What could possibly go wrong if Van and Larry are in charge of the fireworks at your family bonfire party?

Dad Van Masterlist Main Masterlist

💥 It's a family tradition that you visit a local fireworks display every year on Bonfire Night, you've been doing it every year since Grace was born.

💥 This year however, Van decides that you should change things up. "Reckon we could put on just as a good a display at home. What d'ya reckon love?"

💥 "I don't know about that..." you scrunch up your face in disagreement. "Fireworks cost a fortune and at least it's safe for the kids going to a public one."

💥 "I can do safe!" He argues whilst you scoff and remind him why you've got a mini fire extinguisher under your kitchen sink. You purchased it after he'd nearly set your stove on fire the year before in an unfortunate egg frying incident.

💥 "Go on love, I'll make it really special... and extra-safe, I promise ya! It'll be bigger and better than that boring display we usually go to... and the neighbour's one too."

💥 That explains things.

💥 "Oh right, that's what it is then is it? You're in competition with next-door again are you?" You smirk at him teasingly whilst he hotly protests.

💥 "Nah it's not that I swear! But ya know, Craig was going on about buying this 40 shot exploding rocket thing online for a hundred quid. He says it's even better than the biggest ones at the display. Dead smug about it he was!"

💥 You roll your eyes but there's little point in trying to argue with Van. He's so stubborn when he gets an idea in his head it's pointless trying to talk him out of it.

💥 Your kids are beyond excited about the bonfire party, and Van's been hyping it up at every chance he gets. Larry's involved now too which raises concerns but you decide to give the lads the benefit of the doubt.

💥 "Daddy says we're going to have bigger rockets than NASA!" Grace squeals with excitement to anyone who'll listen. Before you know it all the mums on the school playground are sidling up to you, fishing for an invite. It's the talk of the town in no time.

💥 "Van... please tell me you're only buying fireworks that are suitable to use in a back garden," you worry as Van quickly snaps the laptop shut as you try to peer at the screen to see what he's purchasing.

💥 "Don't worry babe, it's all under control," he replies, but you don't miss the shifty glances him and Larry exchange.

💥 "I've got loads of experience Y/N," Larry pipes up. "Steve even put me in charge of health and safety on the last tour."

💥 This does absolutely nothing to quell your anxieties.

💥 "Daddy go BOOM!" Leo giggles, clapping his hands in delight as Van jumps up on the sofa, riling up the kids even further.

💥 "That's what I'm worried about," you groan, shaking your head in consternation.

💥 Over the next week you take delivery of several mysterious parcels which Van whisks away immediately before you have a chance to open them.

💥 For saying he hardly ever sets foot in the garden shed apart from to smoke a sneaky spliff away from the kids, him and Larry have practically set up residence in there. You've been banned from going in whilst they plot in private.

💥 Grace wants to make a guy to put on the bonfire out of Van's old clothes but he won't part with anything, even his old shirts with holes and rips in.

💥 "You're not burning my old stage gear Gracie, it's got sentimental value. Wore this shirt the first time we played Reading." He holds up what resembles a black rag.

💥 "But mummy says you need a wardrobe refresh!" Grace pouts, making a grab for the shirt which Van holds up out of reach.

💥 "Your mum doesn't know what's she's talking about, that's a bit of rock 'n' roll history there!" He counters, smirking at you.

💥 November 5th rolls around and the excitement in the McCann household is palpable. Despite your worries you can't deny how infectious it is and you get swept along with the preparations.

💥 You prepare a feast of hot dogs and burgers and jacket potatoes and there's marshmallows to toast on the bonfire. Everyone's in great spirits.

💥 You and the kids get wrapped up warm in your big winter coats, snuggly scarves and hats whilst the lads insist on braving the cold coat-less. It's a beautiful clear night and the stars are twinkling like diamonds and there's a cold nip in the air that paints little noses and cheeks pink.

💥 Van's eager to get stuck right into the main event and begin firing up the big rockets straight away but you pull rank and declare that you're starting off small, producing a pack of sparklers which you start handing around. "You can't have a bonfire party without sparklers!"

💥 "Sparklers?" Van huffs, turning up his nose, but you remind him that this is Leo's first bonfire night and he might get scared by the loud explosions that'll follow later on.

💥 "Think of everything don't I love?" He grins, placing a big set of ear defenders on your little boy.

💥 For saying Van was happy to dismiss the sparklers he certainly seems to be enjoying himself now, him and Larry spelling out swear words to each other with the fiery sticks in the darkness.

💥 "F for fish... U for umbrella... C for cat..." Grace calls out as she watches them, until you realise what she's spelling and you quickly distract her by stepping in front of the boys whilst drawing some pretty star shapes.

💥 "You're in the way mummy," Grace complains, trying to peer around you. "Daddy and Uncle Larry are helping me with my phonics!" You glare at the boys who are sniggering like naughty little children.

💥 As soon as the proper fireworks start being lit you attract the attention of your next door neighbour who seems to be matching Van and Larry's efforts by letting off progressively bigger and louder rockets as the night goes on.

💥 There's definitely some male posturing going on over the garden fence as the lads compete, bragging about how much they've spent on pyrotechnics and the decibels of the explosions.

💥 You can't deny they're impressive though. There's plenty of "oohhs" and "aahhs" as the night sky is filled with glittery showers of silver and gold and cascades of shimmering reds and greens.

💥 Leo's not phased at all by the deafening bangs and pops, screeching in delight as he points and claps. Grace is utterly mesmerised, speechless for once as she gazes upwards, mouth hanging open in awe.

💥 It's all going so well, a minor disaster quickly averted when the catherine wheel Van attached to the fence flies off on to the grass but Larry's there to quickly douse it with a bucket of water he has on standby.

💥 The lads seem to have it all in hand. Maybe you were too quick to judge. You feel a swell of pride and affection for your husband and a tiny smattering of guilt for ever doubting him.

💥 "It's been amazing," you tell him as you nuzzle up behind him, wrapping your hands around his waist. "The kids have had a great time and I have too. We should do this every year."

💥 He grabs hold of your hand, pulling you around so he can tuck you tight into his side, pressing a sweet kiss to your lips. "Told ya I could pull it off didn't I? But it's not over yet... we're saving the best for last. Just you wait till ya see this last one!"

💥 "You mean there's more?" You gasp, wondering how they can top an already sensational display.

💥 His eyes are sparkling with excitement as he nods enthusiastically, then he's trudging towards the shed to emerge a few seconds later holding a huge box. You can just make out the word "ARMAGEDDON" splayed across the side in the torchlight.

💥 "Van honey, are you sure that one's safe?" You call, stooping to pick up Leo and grabbing Grace's hand, backing up towards the house, suddenly nervous.

💥 "It's all under control love!"

💥 Those are the last words you hear before an almighty thunderous cacophony fills the air and a dozen huge bursts of glittering trails shoot up from the ground like heat-seeking missiles.

💥 They don't all shoot upwards though. Several fly off at random angles, a fiery projectile heading straight for your neighbour's patio doors and another for your garden shed and you scream out in shock as it smashes clean through the window.

💥 "Fuckin' 'ell get the kids inside... QUICK!" Van cries, running down the garden at full pelt with Larry hot on his heels.

💥 All hell breaks loose as you all sprint up the garden amidst a shower of sparks and the loudest ear-splitting screeches that you've ever heard. It feels like your garden's under siege and you're fleeing a war zone.

💥 You watch on from the safety of your house as all the other fireworks Van and Larry have been stockpiling in the shed catch alight and start to explode all at once. Your poor garden shed doesn't stand a chance, flames quickly taking hold and licking up hungrily into the night.

💥 "Look what you've done!" You fume at Van who's staring down the garden slack-jawed, eyebrows singed off with a blackened face. Apologies tumble from him quickly whilst Larry stands frozen in shock.

💥 "I'm so sorry love, this wasn't supposed to happen. I'll buy ya a new shed I promise!"

💥 "The shed's replaceable but you and the kids aren't!" You admonish him, grabbing your phone to call 999. Van's offering to battle the blaze himself with your kitchen fire extinguisher but you refuse to let him go back out there.

💥 The excitement of having real-life fire-fighters at your home soon overshadows the panic and the kids are beside themselves watching them putting out the flames.

💥 "Mummy I want to be a fire-fighter when I grow up now, being a singer's boring!" Grace announces.

💥 Van and Larry get a strict telling off for their irresponsible use of fireworks in a family garden and you've never seen him so apologetic and subdued. Then one of the firefighters recognises him as he's a huge Catfish fan and the stern lecture turns into an impromptu photo-shoot with Van signing autographs for the whole squad.

💥 Grace gets a tour of the fire engine and Leo gets to sit in the driver's seat whilst he proudly wears a helmet. All of a sudden your husband's the hero of the hour despite the carnage he's caused and he's loving it.

💥 "I swear you'd fall into shit and still come up smelling of roses!" You laugh, finally seeing the funny side now you've calmed down and everyone's safe.

💥 "At least it'll be a night to remember!" Van chuckles, taking you into his arms. "And I promise I'll never do anything like that again. I love ya babe... you and the kids are my whole world."

[waterdroid]

Tried to play like 20 minutes of Baldur's Gate 3. It looked like crap and my laptop got so hot you could fry an egg on it </3 sad. ANYWAYS here's a portrait of the charcter I played, Eli! She's my frist DnD character, but Edgier™! don't let her angry face fool you she's a sweetie <3

If you enjoy what I do, please support me on Ko-fi!

[stayandot8]

Sunday Morning

First fanfic post. Short, sweet, to the point. If you read, thank you. <3

Genre: Fluff

Relationship type: established boyfriend/girlfriend

Important Contents: none

WC: 968

masterlist

“Damn it!” I shout  as the sausage pops in the hot grease and lands on my arm.

Chan makes a face, trying desperately not to laugh at me. I glare at him from across the kitchen, daring him to. He raises his arms in the standard ‘don’t blame me’ pose and resumes typing and clicking on his laptop, smiling and waiting for me to give in and ask for his help. I do no such thing.

“Are you alright?” I hear from a distant bedroom. It was the first thing I had heard from that direction in a good while. But Felix was always the first to be concerned about everything. So sweet, that boy. 

“Yes. I’m just waiting for Chan to stop laughing at his girlfriend, ” I shout, glaring knives at him. “Go back to your game, I’m fine.” I hear a chuckle from across the kitchen. I ignore it and retrieve the bacon from the oven.

“I can’t. Han took it over and won’t give it back.” That voice is coming closer, Felix appearing from the hallway. Disheveled hair and loose pajamas, he joins Chan sitting at the breakfast bar in the kitchen after pouring himself a glass of juice. “He seems to be enjoying himself so I let him have it.” 

“Well that is awfully nice of you.” I give him a small smile. He gives it back. I say this to  Felix a lot. “What are you cooking over there? You’ve got a lot going on, can I help?” 

“Well, Christopher over there was supposed to help me but the last time he did, he tried to set the house on fire.”

“That is not what happened!” Chan had given up trying not to laugh as he explains, “All I was trying to do was cook the steak on a flame like Gordon Ramsey taught me in the video. I didn't know it would go up that high.” I just nod along, chuckling to myself. I turn back to the sausage in the pan.

“I think I will stick to cooking by myself until you can be trusted in the kitchen again. So until then, you are banned from the kitchen while I am trying to cook. You can watch me from a safe distance over there.” I point to where he’s currently sitting with my spatula. Chan gives me a pout. 

“But I just want to spend time with you, my darling. I can’t do that with my hands to myself over here.” He gets up from his stool at the bar to make his way over to me while I’m focused on the eggs I am now frying. I feel arms around my middle and a chin resting on my shoulder. “See? I can observe much better from right here. I know I’m more comfortable right here, aren’t you?” I can hear him smiling as he tries to convince me not to kick him out again. I roll my eyes and smile wide.

“Well, you two look awfully comfortable over there so I think I’m going to try and take my game back from Han. Could you at least pass me a piece of bacon to distract him with?” Felix rose from his seat to retrieve the bacon that Chan was holding in his direction, not removing his other hand from my middle. Felix takes it, winks at me, and strolls down the hallway shouting “Hannie! I’ve got bacon!”

“And now that Felix is gone and breakfast is done…” I turn so that I am face to face with Chan and wrap my arms around his neck. “I thought I told you to stay out of the kitchen.”

“Well, you don’t seem too quick to get rid of me now, do you? With your arms around my neck, it seems like you’d like me to stay.” He kisses me gently and looks at me, grinning from ear to ear like he’s won something. I smirk at him and smack him on the shoulder. He yelps.

“You're lucky I’m done with cooking or I’d kick you out again.” I laugh while he narrows his eyes at me and returns to his stool across the room. “Boys, breakfast is done! Come eat before Han eats it all!” 

“Hey, that’s not fair!” Han says as he races down the hall, Felix and Hyunjin in tow. 

“It is too. You ate almost the entire plate of eggs and sausage that she made last time. It was frightening. Changbin isn’t here either so you’re next in line to blame.” Seungmin said as he and I.N. come from the other hall, still in pajamas as well. Felix helps me bring dishes to the table in the dining room as the rest of the boys take their seats. As if on cue, the door swings open and Lee Know and Changbin barge through the door, still sweaty from their morning routine. 

“Did you make me breakfast? How did you know that’s what I wanted after our workout this morning?” Changbin exclaimed excitedly as he sits. 

“It’s food, Changbin. It is a safe assumption that you will always want some of whatever I make so I made enough for everyone this time.” I chuckle as Lee Know puts his hand on my shoulder and whispers his thanks and takes his place at the table. I follow him to my place beside Chan.

“Is that Chan’s sweatshirt you’re wearing?” Hyunjin has a surprised look on his face as he eyes me. The others glance my way then continue to serve themselves. I blush as I nod.

“I think it suits her actually.” Chan says as he smiles at me. 

“Don’t be surprised if it goes missing.” I smile down at my eggs and wonder how I lived life without him.

[zartophski]

3, 16, 19?

3. What is your writing ritual, and why is it cursed?

My writing ritual is nonexistent. I write whenever I can snatch motivation, and I write whatever that motivation wants to work on. Unfortunately that means writing can be very hard and not happen for a while.

16. What's the weirdest thing you've used as a bookmark?

Not weird, but memorable. I had a notecard that on one side, one friend wrote all the lyrics to the Pina Colada song, and on the other side, a different friend drew a comic for the "leg so hot. hot hot leg. leg so hot it fry an egg". Used that for a while as my bookmark.

19. Tell me a story about your writing journey. When did you start? Why did you start? Were there bumps along the way? Where are you now and where are you going?

Got this in another ask as well, so I'll split up the answer. For the first part, I started writing in middle school. I was writing my own original story at the time (and I still have the binder for that somewhere). But in the "breaks" between working on that, I wrote some self-insert oneshots. This was before I knew what fanfiction was. Never shared these with anyone, and I'm pretty sure most of these were lost in the data transfer between laptops over the years. But I started writing those because I read so much so quickly and got so absorbed in the stories and characters that they really were a big part of my life. So much that it felt natural that if these characters could be in my life, who's to say I couldn't be in theirs. I stopped writing those kinds of stories when I got into the world of fanfiction. Saw one too many posts bashing self-inserts and ocs and self insert ocs. But lately I've been creeping back towards that kind of writing. Worm is kind enough to let me poke at their oc, and I've been working on the Too Many Links AU, which is oc adjacent? Been having fun with those, so there's that at least hgfdsjhk

[copperbadge]

maybe someone needs an eggroll toy. to push around the floor

It's just not the same if it isn't food taken directly from Father's mouth!

They do have lots of toys and they do prefer "crunchy" ones, so the egg roll makes sense. But honestly I think on the very rare occasions they beg for food, it's just because they want to share in what I'm doing; Polk really won't eat people food at all anymore, even tasty stuff like chicken. If I gave her a choice between any food, ever, even her favorite, and two seconds of a cheek rub from me, she'd choose the cheek rub.

Dearborn likes fat -- if I give her a little scrap of buttered toast she'll eat it, but only if it's tiny enough she doesn't have to chew much. She's faceplanted into the butter dish before (hilarious, but wasteful) and she once stole half an english muffin straight off my plate. But even so, sometimes she just shoves it around on the table for a while. And while she will beg piteously for a french fry, if I give her a little bit of one she runs away with it, beats it to death, and then leaves it somewhere I will step on it.

They really are just sociable little creatures who want to be part of whatever it is I'm doing. As evidenced by the fact I had to buy a special table to hold my laptop so that my actual lap could be freed up for Dearborn to sleep in.

[the-west-meadow]

Sleepless

Kendall Roy x Reader (warning: very NSFW. 18+ only)

Almost twenty-four hours without sleep, and you were still working. You were holed up in Kendall’s apartment, dealing with the fallout of his explosive press conference. The war against Logan Roy had begun, yet Kendall had few troops at his disposal. He had sent everyone else home for some much-needed sleep. Right now, his most valuable asset was you.

In a grey t-shirt and sweatpants, Kendall paced his living room as you sat on the edge of the armchair taking notes. Your eyes stung from staring at screens all day. Phones, laptops, tablets, TV. News was pouring in. Kendall had to stay ahead of it all.

“We need to schedule interviews with the Times and the Post. I’m thinking a Ted Talk as well. What do you think about—“

Finally he stopped pacing and looked at you. You looked up, wondering why he had stopped.

“Hold on. Fuck this. Have you even eaten today? Have I?”

“No. I don’t think so. Neither of us.”

He sat down on the sofa, running his hands through his short, dark hair.

“Okay. Here’s the new game plan. We need to eat.”

“Want me to order something?”

He peered across the room at you. You could see the thoughts churning through his mind.

“Are you in the mood for breakfast?”

“Kendall—“ you started.

But he laughed. “You don’t have to answer. I forgot I was talking to the breakfast queen.”

He smiled and stood up, heading to the kitchen, which was separated from the living room by a bar. You took a seat on a barstool, propping your weary head in your hands, and watched him. Kendall padded barefoot over the sleek linoleum floor, opening the fridge and cabinet doors.

“So, let me see if I remember,” he said. “Two eggs over easy, toast… I even have some good jam and that vegan sausage you told me about.”

“Sounds perfect.”

He set everything out on the counter and looked at it thoughtfully.

“Anything else? Some kind of fruit?”

“No way.”

“Got it. No fruit.”

You watched his back as he stood at the stove, frying the eggs.

“I’m a straight-up Waffle House chef,” he said with a grin.

“Am I supposed to tip you?”

“Absolutely not. You’re the one who deserves a fucking vacation after all I’ve put you through. New Mexico, maybe.”

“I think we both need a break.”

“Unfortunately this doesn’t end for me. I better get used to fighting for my life.”

You went quiet, listening to the sizzling of eggs and sausage on the stovetop. For once Kendall looked relatively at ease. His shoulders had dropped, and his mind was focused on cooking. You smiled slightly to yourself. He glanced over at you, noticing.

“What?” he said with a crooked grin of his own.

“This is so bizarre. In the middle of all this shit, you’re cooking breakfast at 2am.”

“I guarantee you that no one on my dad’s side has eaten in 24 hours. He’s strictly against food at times like this.”

You sat on pillows around his low coffee table, a bottle of wine between you. You ate slowly, savoring the food, even though you were starving.

“So how is it?” Kendall said, glancing up at you.

“Maybe the best meal I’ve ever eaten in my life.”

“Come on, you’re bullshitting me.”

“I’m not.”

He smiled, then took a sip of his wine. It was the first time in a while that you had felt the least bit relaxed.

“You look exhausted,” he said, pouring you more wine.

“So do you.”

“I am. I’m more tired than I’ve ever been.”

Finished with your meal, you pushed your plate aside and leaned back against the sofa.

“How does it feel?” you asked.

“How does what feel?”

“Going to war against your dad.”

He thought about it for a moment. “I honestly don’t know how I’m going to get through it. If I stop and thing about it too long, I’ll lock myself in my room and curl up in a ball on the floor.”

He looked tired and sad, and suddenly you wanted to reach out and take his hand. Instead, you picked up your glass and took another mouthful of wine.

“Maybe you really can get away after this," you said. "Get some perspective.”

“Wherever I go, you’re going with me. Deal?”

“Sure. Let’s survive this first.”

Kendall glanced at his watch. “We could get in a few hours of sleep before the others get here. Did you bring an overnight bag? I’m not letting you drive home on no sleep.”

“Yeah, I brought some spare clothes.” You stood up, grabbing the backpack on the other armchair. You knew where the bathroom was. Kendall’s apartment was familiar to you, though you had never spent the night here before. He started putting away the dishes as you went to change. Suddenly you were so overcome with exhaustion that you could barely keep your balance as you pulled on your sweatpants. The wine had made you even more drowsy.

When you walked back into the living room, Kendall was lying on his side on the sofa. The only light came from the kitchen, dimly filtering into the living room. His weary eyes opened and he looked at you.

“Come here,” he said. He held out a limp arm to beckon you. You obeyed, sliding onto the wide, spacious sofa with him. He pulled a blanket over both of you, your heads resting on the same pillow.

“Is this okay?” he whispered. In response, you snuggled tightly against him.

“I’m so fucking tired,” you managed.

“I know. I’m sorry.”

He wrapped one arm around you, pulling you close.

"Thanks for being here. You're the only one I want around right now."

You didn't know what to say. Your heart lurched, and you felt as though you never wanted to leave his arms.

“Get some sleep,” he said. “Everything will still be waiting for us in the morning.”

“Don’t think about that.”

You felt him nod against the back of your neck. Everything went silent but for the sound of his soft breathing paired with yours. For a moment it was as though nothing else existed. There was no world outside of Kendall’s apartment. No Logan, no controversy, no legal disputes. Everything was silent, peaceful, still.

You woke to sunlight streaming through the tall windows and the low rumble of traffic below. Kendall had stirred. You felt his warm breath against your neck. Then, softly, his fingers brushed the hair from the back of your neck.

“You didn’t leave,” Kendall murmured.

“Why would I?”

“You’re right,” he said, “You should be here.”

Then you felt his lips on the back of your neck, and a warm current rippled through your body.

“Kendall…”

You brushed against him and felt the hardness behind his sweatpants.

“I want you here,” he said. “More than anything."

You pressed against him automatically, making slow and steady circles as he grew harder. Kendall moaned into your ear, gripping your thigh as he pulled you against him.

“Fuck,” he breathed, “Are we doing this?”

You rolled over him, now on top. His dark eyes glinted up at you with new energy. He reached up to brush your face, and you took his knuckle lightly between your teeth, running your tongue across it.

“Fuck,” he said again, his hands moving suddenly to your waistline. He had your pants down effortlessly. His fingers slid into you, testing you. You let out a moan and leaned into his touch.

“Did you wake up this wet or what?”

“Fuck yes,” you whispered. "I thought we were going to fuck last night."

"Then you better fuck me now."

As though you had no time to waste, you yanked down Kendall’s pants and gripped his warm, hard length. He gasped in pleasure, arching back against the sofa. You straddled him, feeling his hot pulse, his naked thighs pressed against yours. Then you slid down onto him. He let out a long, low moan as you melted into each other. He grasped your hips, fingers digging into your skin as you rocked against him. He knotted his fingers in your hair, looking you in the eyes as you fucked him.

You moved fast, then slow, teasing him. He tore your shirt off over your head, pulled you against him and kissed you deeply, feeling the heat of your bodies pressed together. He groaned into your mouth as you continued to grind against him, letting out every urge that had built up in each other’s presence.

Kendall’s head suddenly jerked towards the door. Voices filtered in as it started to crack open. In one swift motion, Kendall threw the blanket over both of you.

“Nope! No!” he cried desperately, but it was too late. Greg stepped in with his bag over his shoulder. His eyes immediately landed on the sofa, where you lay tucked against Kendall’s chest, breathing heavily and trying not to laugh.

Greg immediately turned and shook his head swiftly to the others; Jess and the new PR team were in tow behind him.

“Yep, got it,” Greg said, averting his eyes. “I get it now, won’t do that again. Sorry.”

“Out, Greg, please!”

“Sure, of course. Just one question.” He lingered at the door, staring at the ground as he addressed an exasperated Kendall. You lay naked under the blanket against him, still stroking his hard cock and holding in laughter.

“God dammit,” Kendall moaned.

“Do you guys want breakfast?”

“Get out please, Greg, right fucking now.”

The door shut soundly. With muffled voices still sounding in the hall, Kendall rolled you over on your back, hovering above you with a breathless grin.

“Should I keep going?” you asked, your fingers grazing him beneath the blanket.

“Fuck you,” he whispered, trembling, then kissed you through his smile.

[self-proclaimed-chaotic-good]

Back in Business | Adam Milligan x Reader (Oneshot)

Prompt: Amnesia

Words: 1144

Fandom: Supernatural

A/N: I don't know why it took me this long to post this when it was sitting in my drafts for ages, so here it is.

Summary: An installation to my [Those Left Behind] series of oneshots, a canon divergent series where Sam, Dean, and Cas had suddenly disappeared, leaving reader and Jack alone to take over. When it was getting too much for them to handle, Adam mysteriously appeared in front of them from the ground. This takes place after [New Routine].

-

Sam, Dean, and Cas were back, but they were not the same as when they had left. There were pieces in their memories that were missing. At one point, they forgot why they left in the first place. It was always for a case, but they couldn’t remember what. They woke up lying in a poppy field in the middle of the forest, before making their way back to town on foot.

It was a huge surprise to see Adam again, making them very curious about what exactly happened while they were away. Cas couldn’t readily find an explanation for the recent turn of events, but for now, they were glad to be home.

Dean watched you and Adam cook together curiously as he sat at the dining table, beer in hand. Sam was already researching possible causes to their disappearance. Jack and Cas were sitting on the opposite side of the table catching up about their latest cases as well as any news from the other angels.

Adam went to reach past you for a seasoning, a hand on your waist to steady himself, before going back to the stove. He leaned over, his lips brushing your ear as he whispered something that made you laugh. You bumped his shoulder as you continued to fry the bacon and sausages Dean wanted. You were aware of him watching the two of you, and you had no reason to hide this development. It was hard to predict his reaction, but you didn’t want to worry about it the whole time.

“Order up!” you called, bringing a full plate of eggs, bacon, and sausage in front of each person.

You and Adam sat across from Jack and Cas, the table being used at almost full capacity. Adam slid his laptop over, searching up new cases with one hand and shoveling eggs into his mouth in the other. You shook your head, chewing off a piece of bacon as Jack told the others about the vampire nest they walked into for Adam’s first hunt.

“So, what exactly happened down in the cage? How did you get out?” Sam asked, empty plates all pushed to the side as you all returned to business.

Adam shrugged. “Well, besides the absolute torture it was being stuck beween Michael and the devil and my ears bleeding from their constant bickering and also the constant pressure on my body from their angel presence, it could be worse, I guess. You were gone,” Adam points to Sam, “Something was happening to the cage that was making it weak and suddenly I was being dragged out and spat out in the middle of the road.”

“And Michael? Lucifer? What happened to them?” Cas asked.

Adam took a minute too long to answer before giving another shrug as he averted his eyes towards the laptop screen. “I don’t know. I had no idea what was going on.”

You looked at Adam and frowned. You had forgotten to ask him about that, the fact that he had been Michael’s vessel eluding you. You supposed that it was due to the fact that Sam and Dean had avoided talking about their long lost half-brother. Cas stood up, chair scraping across the floor.

“I need to go,” he said.

“Where?” Dean asked.

“If the cage had been weakened or damaged in any way, then that means something big happened.”

“I’ll go with you,” Jack said, standing up as well. Cas looked over at him with a small smile, placing a hand on his shoulder before they both disappeared in a flurry of wind.

Dean blinked, flummoxed by the sudden change of events. It was just one thing after another. They had just gotten back from who knows where and while he usually had the attitude of a workaholic, even he felt that they needed time to step back and really look at what’s going on. He had a feeling that they were dealing with something that was bigger than they thought. It always was like that.

He turned his gaze over to his youngest brother who was staring intently at his laptop. “Got anything?”

Adam nodded. “I think so,” he said, spinning the laptop around to face his brothers. “Mysterious deaths around Columbia Falls, the safest city in Montana.”

“Not anymore.”

Sam snorted at Dean’s remark. “What about it?”

“Whether these are suspected murders or a series of unfortunate events in a small city, the victims so far had mostly been college students on spring break all of them having visited the RV park and campgrounds. The latest case is a couple that had gone camping and were found near the river, their bodies bloated as if they had been underwater for months instead of two days. They’re still doing an autopsy on them. Looks like they’ve found more stuff that could give us an idea of what it is.”

“Rules out the normal bear attacks and werewolves,” Dean said.

Sam hummed, closing his laptop. “Well, are all four of us going?”

“I don’t see why not. We’re going nowhere with our Wicked Witch poppy field mystery and I wanna see our baby brother in action.” Dean smirked at Adam.

You took the time to get ready, packing a small duffle bag and some basic hunting supplies in a backpack. There was a lightness in your step from the fact that your close friends who were like family were back, but your heart was feeling different. Like Dean had said, there was likely something bigger at work than any of them thought. You also couldn’t shake off the fact that Adam had hesitated when Cas asked him about what happened to Michael and Lucifer. It could be him taking a moment to remember, but everything he had a clear answer to.

Passing by Adam’s room, you heard a low murmuring. You didn’t want to be nosy, but it had helped you many times during cases. The door was cracked open and you could see his shadow from under the door.

Tiptoeing closer, you could hear Adam’s voice clearly, but what made you halt in place was what he was saying. You weren’t versed in it, but you could recognize the language the longer you heard it. Adam was speaking enochian. Who was he talking to?

Before you could walk away, the door swung wide open, revealing Adam with a bag slung over his shoulder. He spotted you instantly, eyes wide like a deer caught in headlights.

You cleared your throat. “Ready?” you asked casually.

He nodded, then lowered his head with a frown.

“You okay?”

“I’m fine,” he said quickly, snapping his head up again. He wrapped an arm around your waist as he led you out towards the kitchen and dining area. “Looks like the family business is back in full swing, huh?”

[wasabito]

there are a million other things i should be doing,,, and yet here i am—anyway, i’m half asleep, so if this is barely coherent, that’s why.

words: idk because i typed it straight into tumblr

tags: dry humping, make out sess, super quickie, suggestive content, 18+ only

there were many things about bokuto you loved. his passion for volleyball was one thing, his charisma was another, there was also the way he always knew how to make you laugh until your cheeks grew tender. but despite all of these amazing things, something else had slowly become your favorite thing about your boyfriend — this seemingly innocent thing that had you squeezing your thighs everytime you caught a glimpse of him.

“hey, bumblebee, have you seen my retainer?” an exasperated voice called from somewhere afar.

“if it’s not on the nightstand, it’s probably in the bathroom, baby.” you paused in your typing at the sound of bokuto bursting into your shared bedroom.

he’d done well this past hour in giving you enough space to get some work done without any distractions. however, you knew it was only a matter of time before he’d come to divert your attention away from acid-base reactions and chemistry lab reports.

he stood at the foot of the bed with a pout on his lips. “damn, i really can’t find it.”

you said nothing as your eyes were suddenly drawn to bokuto’s current state of undress.

sure, it was a little toastier than normal, but you’d nearly forgotten how much he ran hot. it was no wonder he had pulled off his top at some point, favoring to remain shirtless with sweatpants hanging loose on his hips and a goofy, oblivious grin on his lips.

surely this wasn’t the same gray sweatpants you’d gotten him last week to replace his old pair? who would’ve thought such a simple getup could be so... tantalizing.

bokuto caught your blank stare and blinked down at you, wondering why you’d gone so silent all of a sudden. were you feeling okay? were you tired?

he let himself face-plant into the soft bedding, jostling the computer in your lap.

“maybe you should take a break...you’ll fry your brain like an egg if you don’t.”

you wanted to tell him you were doing just fine, that another hour wouldn’t kill you, but the sight of his muscled back made your throat run dry.

he had... gotten a lot beefier since graduation, filling out in a way that pointed only to his dedication as an athlete. the taut muscles of his arms, powerful thighs, and booty. a god among men, your boyfriend was and he didn’t even know it.

bokuto turned over on his back, laying at your side with both arms crossed behind his head. honestly, if you hadn’t known any better you would’ve sworn he was doing all of this flexing on purpose, flaunting his perfect body at you just to see how long you’d last before pouncing on him.

gulping passed the lump in your throat, you finally set your laptop aside and climbed on top of him.

“hmm, what’s up, angel?”

you answered your boyfriend with a kiss to his lips. “consider me distracted, bo.” you murmured against the seam of his mouth. “isn’t that what you wanted?”

regardless of whether this had been his intention all along, it was so easy to rile him up.

with hands braced against bokuto’s bare chest, you grind your clothed pussy against him as if testing the waters. you’d ridden him like this countless times, each time more exquisite than the last. your personal favorite was the time bokuto had let you fuck yourself against his thigh brace. you’d nearly cried with how good it felt.

tonight, bokuto was moaning into your mouth with every roll of your hips. his growing erection made itself known the more you steadily rocked against him.

deft fingers gripped your thighs as his hips canted upwards to meet your pace. “baby, pleease~” he whined. but bokuto’s choked whimpers only spurred you on even more while he arched his back off the mattress in desperation.

you trailed kisses along his jaw and down his neck, tongue grazing the shell of his ear as you went.

the tiny jolts of pleasure shooting straight to your core had your toes curling, your needy cunt left to clench around nothing at all.

you were trembling before you even knew it, orgasm rocketing through as you collapsed on top of your boyfriend. only then had you noticed the wet stain on his pants. he’d come as well.

you leaned forward, snatching his lips in yet another kiss as your fingers carded through the hair at his nape. “love you.” you whispered.

bokuto offered a wobbly little pout. “love you more.”

[randomshyperson]

Wanda Maximoff x Reader - You are my main interest

Prompt received from AO3 > The one where Wanda starts to read Harry Potter series just to have something in common with reader.

Warnings: None.

Words:  1.116k (Drabble) | AO3

Tags: @mionemymind / @abimess / @stephanieromanoff / @yourtaletotell / @tomy5girls / @justagaypanicking / @thegayw1tch

//-//

Usually you spent your free time in your room at the Avengers compound.

Between missions and training, you weren't exactly known for socializing with your other colleagues, but rather staying in your room, either reading, watching television or playing video games. Often reading.

You had a favorite collection of books, however, the juvenile work of adventure, Harry Potter, and all your classmates knew this, because besides books, you had sweatshirts, toys, and decorative figures.

So you were immediately surprised when after a training session with Nat and Steve, you went into the living room and found someone else wearing a Slytherin sweatshirt.

"Wow, you're into Harry Potter?" You asked suddenly when you noticed, interrupting Steve's comment about your evolution with close-range jabs, causing him and Nat to look at you with confusion while Wanda was startled by your line and almost knocked over the frying pan she was holding in her hands to serve some eggs on her plate.

She blinked confusedly at you for a few seconds, and then smiled shyly.

"Err, I... Yes." She agreed clumsily and you smiled excitedly, not caring about Steve's slightly annoyed look that he had been interrupted, and was being ignored.

"Cool." You commented before heading down the hall, you need to take a shower.

The thing was that you had a crush on Wanda ever since she joined the team. You keep your distance, however, since knowing yourself, you would be too nervous around her and you would embarrass yourself if you try to talk to her.

You kept this logic for the rest of the week, and then on Friday, after finishing your daily tasks, you decided to spend some time in the common room, the Prisoner of Azkaban edition in your hands.

You almost went back to your room when you noticed that Wanda was on one of the couches, but you swallowed dryly and made your way to one of the free armchairs.

"Hey." She greeted you gently when you sat down. You smiled back, opening your book.

You were silent for a few minutes. You would like to say that you were paying attention to the words in front of you, but for half an hour you had been staring at the same page, hyperaware of Wanda's presence beside you.

You bit the inside of your cheek as she adjusted her position in the chair, and you noticed the Hogwarts t-shirt she was wearing. 

"Hey Nerds!" announced Pietro suddenly, using speed to throw himself on the couch next to you. 

"Don't do that." You mumbled startling yourself, and the boy laughed as he looked at the television.

"What are you watching?"

"The Dick Van Dyke Show" Wanda replied without taking her eyes off the television. Pietro was silent for a few seconds before teasing.

"You're not watching this in your room because?" he said, but before Wanda could answer, he gave a wry little laugh. "Oh yeah, you wanted to be with your girlfriend."

"Shut up, Pietro." Wanda replied immediately, blushing heavily. She threatened to throw a pillow at her brother, but he was already using his powers to go to the kitchen counter, laughing at his sister's embarrassment. You squeezed the cover of the book harder than necessary, feeling your heart soar at the insinuation.

"Wanda and Y/N sitting in a tree..." He started humming, and Wanda raised her head quickly, her hands glowing red. You closed the book quickly, and stood up, complaining that they were making too much noise as you left the kitchen quickly, your heart thumping against your chest.

//-//

You stayed in your room until dinner time. Just as you thought about starting The Goblet of Fire, someone knocked on your door.

" Come in" You shouted from your bed, without taking your eyes off the book on the mattress.

"Hey." Wanda said as soon as she closed the door. You raise your head quickly, feeling your stomach turn.

"H-hi Wanda." 

Wanda walked to the front of her bed, moving her fingers nervously.

"I wanted to apologize for Pietro" She announced quickly with a flushed face. You blinked in surprise. "He was just joking and..."

"No problem." You quickly interrupt with a smile, feeling your face heat up at the subject. "Really, I don't mind."

Wanda shifted her gaze to the floor.

"Why not?"

"Why not what?"

"Why don't you mind?" She clarified, and before you could think about what she meant, she added clumsily. "You don't care because you never saw me like that, or because it's true?"

Your brain probably short-circuited.

"I-I...I..."

"Damn, sorry, I'll just go." She rushed to say and you took a deep breath.

"No." You order as soon as she turns around, as you quickly sit down on the bed. When Wanda looks at you again, you look down at the mattress, "I like you. That's why I don't mind the jokes. It's because Pietro is right."

"Oh." 

"I didn't want to say anything because we never really talked to each other properly." You confessed helpfully. "And I didn't want things to get awkward."

"I like you too." Wanda says next, and you raise your head in surprise.

"Wow, what?"

She gives a shy little laugh, shifting the weight of her feet.

"That's why Pietro was teasing me." She counters. "I told him I was looking for the way to tell you. And he wanted to give me a little push."

"Oh, okay."

Your heart is racing, and you swallow dryly, feeling very happy all of a sudden. 

"Can we talk about Harry Potter now?" She asks suddenly, and you blink in confusion. Wanda laughs, "I've been reading the books all week to try to get some common ground with you, but you haven't said anything.”

You stare at her for a few seconds, and then laugh.

"My god, is that why you bought these sweaters overnight?" 

Wanda nodded absently, and you patted the mattress for her to join you on the bed. When she came closer, you opened your arms, and she gladly accepted your embrace. "You are the cutest thing, Wanda Maximoff."

"Shut up." She complained against you, pushing you on the bed without separating your embrace.

"Do you want to watch the movies with me?" You asked next and Wanda nodded, but it took another moment for you to let go, silly smiles on your faces.

When Philosopher's Stone started, you and Wanda were sitting across from each other, a laptop in your lap. 

"It's a shame they're not as cool as you, little witch." You commented and Wanda laughed softly, moving closer to kiss your cheek. You couldn't pay attention to any part of the movie after that.

[young-dumb-and-vaccinated]

The Cult Girl (Hannibal x Female!Reader) pt. 1

This is my first time publishing any of my reader insert work so don’t be too hard on me. Y/N is a psych student that needs a favor and asks her therapist for help. Lmk if you want to see more.

It was an unmistakable conflict of interest, your relationship with Hannibal. He was your therapist, your mentor, your partner, and many years your senior to boot. You recognized this monumental power imbalance. You put on a façade of embarrassment for the people who expected it; people whose proclivities were done in the shadows and therefore easier to get away with. Why should you be expected to rationalize your loving, mutually beneficial relationship to a person who regularly cheats on her boyfriend?

You'd dated men your own age before, and without fail, you always found yourself waiting for them to grow up. Hannibal made you feel comfortable. Both emotionally and physically. You had a side of his bed and a spot in his arms to fall asleep in every night. Given the choice, you could truthfully say you'd never want to leave his arms.

Like many unlikely relationships, it didn’t start out in the most romantic of ways. Clutching your laptop under your raincoat, you hesitated knocking. Your therapist had, of course, seen you at your lowest points and was sworn to secrecy, but this was a low you didn’t want even him to see. Standing outside of his home, in the so-incredibly-not-business-hours dead of night with mascara running down your face. 

You finally worked up the nerve to knock, telling yourself that he was probably asleep and wouldn’t hear you. This rationalization fell apart when the interior light turned on and the door unlocked. Although you’d been seeing Dr. Lecter for quite a while, his presence never failed to intimidate you. Now it was even worse. His severe expression was fixated on you as he silently awaited an explanation. 

“Dr. Lecter...” You lowered your head and fumbled with your computer. You made a point to kiss your last shreds of dignity goodbye before you opened your mouth again. “...could I please borrow a book?” 

Dr. Lecter narrowed his eyes. “I take it by the hour, this is an urgent matter, Miss [L/N]?”

“My midterm. It’s due in...” You glanced at your watch. “Eight hours.” 

“Well you don’t have a moment to waste, now do you?” Dr. Lecter said, a slight upturn in his voice connoting amusement. “Come in. Let’s find you that book.” 

You felt your muscles relax as he stepped aside to let you in. The house was spacious. Much too large for one person. That was really the only thing you could bring yourself to notice before he shut the door behind you. 

“Now what is this all-important book of yours called?” He asked, pulling your raincoat from your shoulders like he always did. 

“It’s called Thought Reform and the Psychology of Totalism.” You explained, tucking your computer under your arm. “By Robert Jay Lifton.” 

“You’re in luck, Miss [L/N].” His thin lips turned up into a smile. “I have a copy from my own years as a student.”

You breathed an audible sigh of relief. You tensed your muscles and held in your excitement at the prospect of something finally going according to plan, even if that plan was your third or fourth backup.

You followed him into his office, which reminded you more of Belle’s library than any workspace you’d ever encountered. He must have had thousands of books in this room alone.

“It’s a fascinating read, but not one you could finish in eight hours.” Dr. Lecter's voice echoed from somewhere in the office, getting lost in the books. “Even for the most ravenous of psychology students, of which I know you to be.” 

"Hardly." You muttered under your breath. "If that were the case, I wouldn't be begging for help at 2am before the final paper is due."

"Procrastination is only human, my dear." He assured you, his voice drawing closer. "It's common in those with deep-rooted insecurities about their competency."

"Now that sounds more like me." You joked, leaning back on your heels. "Should you really be trying to validate my bad habits? I feel like that's counterproductive."

"Scolding you would be more counterproductive." He corrected. "You've been scolded many times before and you continue your bad habits. Only when we get to the root of your behavior can you begin to reverse it."

He emerged from the bookshelves and handed you a beat-up copy of Thought Reform and the Psychology of Totalism, which you graciously accepted. 

“Thank you so much, Dr. Lecter.” You said, placing your hand over your heart. "I owe you my life."

"I'd hardly equate your life to a used book, Miss [L/N]." Dr. Lecter said. "I feel like, as your therapist, we should talk about why you do."

You looked away, smiling sheepishly. "Maybe sometime in daylight. I've taken up enough of your time as it is. I'll get out of your hair now."

"It would take you more time to get back to your dorm that you could use writing." He said, matter-of-factually. "Write your paper in my office."

You looked at him in disbelief. Your judgment was clouded with energy drinks and desperation. So your usual self-sacrificing polite denial was steamrolled by a very enthusiastic acceptance. "I would be forever indebted to you, Dr. Lecter."

"Miss [L/N]," Dr. Lecter cut in. "You're a student, you need to study."

You didn’t really remember a lot of what happened after you wrapped your arms around his waist, too overwhelmed with gratitude to think if an embrace was even appropriate. It was the middle of the night, so you had an excuse if he shoved you off him. But surprisingly, he didn’t. 

You broke the embrace and gathered up your book and computer. “Seriously, I owe you big time for this. You’re really saving my life here.” 

“Go write your paper, [F/N].” He ordered. “We can discuss why you conflate your academics and your life during our next appointment. For now, make yourself at home.”

And that you did. Dr. Lecter retired back to bed and you spent a solid four hours typing away. An antique grandfather clock kept count for you. When you couldn’t keep your eyes open any longer, you sent the paper off to your professor, editing be damned. You let sleep compel you, comforted by the fact that you didn't have to think about your paper for at least another week before the grading period was over. 

Dr. Lecter’s desk was the most comfortable surface in the world to you that night, because you slept for six hours with only your arms as a pillow. It was the first rest your body had gotten in quite some time. You were gently coaxed awake by the smell of something delicious. 

You followed the smell into a kitchen that could rival those of Michelin-starred restaurants. Dr. Lecter was hard at work, cooking something that enticed your nose. He cracked an egg and looked up at you. “Good morning, Miss [L/N].”

“I’m sorry.” You said, shaking your head shamefully. 

“For?” He asked, fixing his attention back on his recipe.

“Falling asleep.” You dropped your shoulders.

“I told you to make yourself at home, did I not?” He tilted his head and narrowed his eyes. This time, he sounded like he was actually going to scold you. “Tell me, do you sleep at your desk at home?” 

“I try not to.” You answer with a shrug. 

“But when you feel yourself falling asleep, you usually put yourself to bed, right?” He continued.

You started to feel a bit stupid. “...yeah.” 

He poked at some sausage links in a frying pan, letting out a sizzle. “You could have taken the couch.”

“I guess I was just too sleepy to think of that.” You explained, preparing to be psychoanalyzed no matter what you said.

“No, you were just too polite to push the imagined boundaries of my invitation.” He concluded, busying his hands with plating whatever it was he was making. His tone was comfortingly familiar. “Miss [L/N], don’t sacrifice your comfort for what you think I perceive to be rude. If I found you rude, you’d know it.”

"I'm sorry." You repeated.

"Don't apologize." He said, reaching for the pepper mill. "I know your anxiety disorder makes you feel like you are a burden. I assure you, you are not. I want you to know for next time that the couch is open. Or you could take the guest bedroom."

You stopped yourself before you could apologize again. You momentarily pondered what he had to say before uttering a quiet but convicted "Thank you."

"You're very welcome." Dr. Lecter slid a plate across the table in your direction. "Eat, my dear."

You didn't need to be told twice. You usually didn’t care for sausage, but reconsidered when you took a bite. The meat was so flavorful and rich, a little noise of delight escaped your lips.

Dr. Lecter smiled, your little moan sending his ego through the roof. “You like it?” 

“It’s delicious.” You put your fork down, your face flush with embarrassment. “Way better than the food at the dining hall.” 

“Miss [L/N],” Dr. Lecter began, putting an extra sausage link on your plate. “If you find yourself in need of psychology texts, I’d be happy to extend my invitation indefinitely.” 

You nearly choked on your eggs. “On god?” 

“Given that you arrive sometime before midnight and perhaps call ahead, yes.” He answered. “Your studies are your life and breath, after all. You would find yourself very accommodated to here.”

This time, you'd really take him up on his offer.

[koifish86]

Moony’s birthday

Ok so I thought this fic was lost forever and then it turns out I just needed to restart my laptop and everything was fine again lol. Turns out machines need a break too. This is def some hurt/comfort shit and I’m kind of proud of it so I hope you enjoy. 

Sleep was wonderful. It was a point where you could escape the worries and responsibilities of life for a while where you didn’t have to do anything except appreciate the warmth of the duvet. That is exactly what Remus Lupin was doing. Well until the covers were thrown back by his traitor husband exposing the long and lanky frame to the cold march air. That brought a stabbing pain in his chest that he was almost used to by now, almost.

----------

Covers yanked back and three extra bodies piled onto the small twin sized bed with similar levels of excite glee.

“Happy birthday to you, happy birthday dear Mooooonnnnnnyyyyyyy” the three bodies also decided to bring their disastrously out of tune voices along with them it seemed “happy birthday too youuuuu!”

Despite the feeling of being physically crushed by his best friends Remus also felt crushed by the love pouring out of these boys and a grin couldn’t help but work itself onto his face.

----------

“Moonbeam, my love how are you this fine morning?” Sirius said with way to much joy and energy in his voice for 8am.

“Better if you let me sleep in you arsehole” the tawny (now greying) haired man grumbled into his pillow haphazardly searching for the duvet to pull back over his head, but soon gave up as he could reach it

“Well, this arsehole made you birthday breakfast so come on I know you hate getting crumbs in the bed” and with that the shorter man left the room with a large flourish, well a rather dramatic flick of his hair at least.

Birthday breakfast is something James thought of. Remus didn’t like presents and hated his birthday, hated the attention, but James being James needed to show his friend how much he cared.

----------

Stumbling down to the great hall before classes still wiping sleep from his eye Remus Lupin was joined by only two friends instead of the regular three. James was often an early riser so seeing him sat at the breakfast table wasn’t unusual. No, the unusual thing was the plate of all different goodies. Pancakes, waffles, toast, beans, sausages, bacon, hashbrowns, eggs (done every way you can), croissants, hot cross buns, crumpets and even cereal. It seems his friend hadn’t forgot a single classic English breakfast item and as Remus sat down staring bewildered at the mountain of foods the messy haired boy spoke up before he could even attempt to say anything.

“My Mum taught me to cook loads of different things like the eggs sunny side up, scrambled, poached fried. OH, and the pancakes have got chocolate chips cause you love chocolate y’know, can’t forget the chocolate sauce, I’ve also got fruit cause well its healthy. I just figured since you don’t like presents at least I can give you food, right?” the information was sort of rocketed in Remus’s general direction rather than actually spoken but that was just James.

----------

Remus was pulled from another memory of Hogwarts that caused that twinging pain in his left lung, by the mountain of food on the island in the kitchen. Pancakes, waffles, all the cereal boxes pulled down from the shelf, a plate of sausages and another waiting for the bacon, hashbrowns, croissants, hot cross buns, and crumpets.

 Sirius was standing over the stove frying up the last of the bacon swinging his hips and humming too the intro of ‘tie your mother down’ playing through the old record player speakers sat in the corner. Remus lent against the doorway admiring the love of his life with Remus’s pyjama’s low on his hips. Sirius was beautiful, he always had been why shouldn’t Remus spend a bit of time relishing in the presence of this man. The humming had changed into Sirius belting out the words.

“GET YOUR PARTY GOWN, GET YOUR PIGTAIL DOWN, GET YOUR HEART BEATIN’ BABY”

----------

12th December 1976 was a cold day which Remus decided was best wrapped up in a blanket with a book, that was until Sirius and James all but tumbled through the door to their shared dorm.

“PRONGS PUT IT ON GO ON GO ON!”

“IM GETTING THEIR PADFOOT JUST-“

Remus looked up from his perch on the windowsill book in his lap forgotten in favour of the two boys excitement.

‘’What the fuck is happening?” came Remus’s confused gruff voice from the other side of the room.

“MOONY MOONY MOONY MOONY CHRISTMAS HAS OFFICIALLY COME EARLY! LOOK, LOOK, LOOK!” Sirius was practically vibrating with excitement and way to loud as per usual as he shoved the record sleeve in his boyfriends face.

“Woah. WHERE IN THE EVER-LIVING FUCK DID YOU GET THIS?” A wide excited grin joined his face too match his two best friends.

“Muggle shop,” he said flippantly “it came out TWO days ago Moony!”

“Hold on how did you get to muggle shop, Hogsmead is the only town nearby? No tell me after we’ve listened to the album, come on James how long does it take to put on a fucking record”

“Alright don’t get your knickers in a twist Moony, here” and the first notes of Tie your mother down started playing through the speakers and the three friends stood around appreciating the music.

They must’ve listen to the album twice through before Peter joined them and proceeded to complain that they didn’t find him immediately. Then they all listened through the album through another three times before discussing and then another two times. To say Day at the races was a favourite record for the marauders was an understatement.

“Wow, that might be there best album EVER” Peter announced

“Ooh making some bold claims there Wormy” came the teasing voice of James Potter

“I think my favourite song was Tie your mother down. What about you lot?” Sirius started the conversation the usually ended in arguments and harsh words thrown about whenever a new record was added to the marauders collection. “Moony?” grey eyes looked up through dark eyelashes up at the other boy. From his place in his lap Sirius got a perfect view of the birthmarks speckling the column of Remus’s neck and the different shades of brown, yellow and gold in his hair. The light from above created a halo around Remus’s head as he looked down on the dark-haired boy resting in his lap.

“Oof, Pads. A favourite? I dunno, they were all sooooo good!”

“Oh, come of it Moony you always have a favourite!” James socked foot came to knock his knee, the taller boys attention was briefly taken away from the boy in his lap. Sirius usually like to have all the attention, but he didn’t mind this one bit, getting too look at Moony will that easy smile spread across his face and watching the thoughts run over his face was a sight to behold.

“Good old fashioned lover boy” he said holding James gaze as the messy haired boy threw his hands in the air in clear frustration.

“NO! THE BEST SONG WAS CLEARLY DROWSE!”

“WHAT?! YOU HAVE TO BE KIDDING ME PRONGS” Remus lent forward and threw his hands around but quickly moved back in fear of jostling Sirius too much

“WHAT IT WAS A GOOD SONG AND I STAND BY THAT!” messy haired boy stood up with an air of finality

“Oh no you don’t get to walk away from this conversation Prongs” at the moment Remus leapt across the room, all aspects of keeping his boyfriend comfy went out the window apparently and latched himself onto James ankles toppling him to ground like a Jenga tower.

----------

Remus wrapped his arms around his husbands waist and plastered his chest to expanse of Sirius back while proceeding to joining with a new rendition of Tie your mother down.

“GOT MY TIMIN’ RIGHT, GOT MY ACT ALL TIGHT, ITS GOTTA BE TONIGHT MY LITTLE SCHOOL BABE!”

“YOUR MOMMA SAYS YOU DON’T AND YOUR DADDY SAYS YOU WON’T AND IM BURNIN’ UP INSIDE AINT NO WAY IM GONNA LOOSE OUT THIS TIME”

The smell of burning bacon is what knocked the couple out of their fantasy and Sirius frantically moved the pan of the heat and salvaged the bacon that wasn’t burnt. Still plastered to his husbands back Remus started shaking with silent laughter.

“Oi you wanker grab the plate and at least be useful instead of laughing at my efforts” Sirius said a teasing lilt to his voice. Moving away from the warmth that Sirius always managed to radiate was more of a chore than trying to grade 1st years essays even if he did wrap his arms back around the shorter mans waist as soon as he could.

“Y’know, I thought you were getting better at cooking didn’t Effie teach you to cook” Remus said jokingly.

“She certainly tried; you know James was always the chef” in one sentence all of their teasing had fallen, and they were left with the nasty reminder that they were alone. The two of them with their friends all lost to a war that none of them should have been a part of. The tears didn’t creep up on Remus by any stretch of the imagination, they had been waiting for the right moment to strike all morning and he had only just been holding them back.

“I miss them too, love” Remus whispered into Sirius neck where he had tucked his head.

[heyitssmiller]

Clandestine: Chapter Nine

Another cliffhanger? Me? Nah. 

All characters belong to @lumosinlove

@donttouchmycarrots is the best and I love her so much. She also inspired a lot of this chapter’s angst, so it’s not all my fault this time! <3

CW: violence, blood/injuries, guns/gun violence

Clandestine Masterlist

.

Sirius woke up alone. This in and of itself wasn’t unusual, until he remembered the events of the night before. Wandering hands, soft, needy sighs, and warm lips that kissed him and kissed him and kissed him. He rolled onto his stomach and smothered himself with his pillow to hide the smile that took over his entire face, heart beating giddily in his chest. That happened.

Holy shit.

But that begged the question: where was he?

Sirius stayed in bed for a few moments, thinking that maybe Remus was coming back, but then he got too impatient and crawled out of bed to go searching. If he was camped out in front of that laptop again this early… but no. He was standing in front of the stove, prodding at the contents of a frying pan. The smell of coffee reached Sirius and he smiled again as he entered the kitchen, making sure his footsteps were loud enough for Remus to hear - that way it wasn’t a surprise when he came to stand behind Remus and wrapped his arms around his waist, hooking his chin on his shoulder to watch what was happening on the stove. 

A general rule of dating a spy - don’t sneak up on them. It tends to end badly.

“Morning.” Sirius mumbled, turning his head to press a lingering kiss to a tendon in Remus’ neck and smiling against warm skin. Remus hummed, leaning back into Sirius’ chest and angling his neck to give him better access. That simple, innocuous motion stole Sirius’ breath. Remus didn’t trust easily - Sirius could understand why, given everything he’d been through. But there he was, relaxed against Sirius, eyes closed, completely trusting. Sirius wasn’t exactly sure what to do with something so precious, but damn he really didn’t want to screw this up. So he continued to place kiss after kiss to Remus’s skin, finding a ticklish spot right below his ear that made him laugh and squirm in Sirius’ arms before he shoved him away, a wide, happy smile on his face.

Had Sirius ever been this happy before? He doubted it.

“So what’s for breakfast, chef?” He asked, peering at the frying pan. Remus turned the stove off and grabbed plates from the cabinet by the fridge while Sirius grabbed silverware and napkins. It was incredibly domestic. Sirius couldn’t get enough of it.

“Scrambled eggs, toast, and coffee. Nothing gourmet, but it’s the best I can do.” He answered as he scooped eggs out of the frying pan and grabbed toast from the toaster, then handed the plate to Sirius. They took their plates to the tiny kitchen table, along with the coffee and creamer and jams before sitting down to eat.

It was… nice. Their relationship had changed a lot the night before, but it was easy - a seamless transition from friends to more. He’d always assumed there would be some awkwardness with a big change like that, but it felt normal. Remus still teased him for how he took his coffee, Sirius still kicked him for it. They went over their plans for the day and what they wanted to get done. The ease of it all made Sirius wonder just how long they’d been teetering over that precipice.

It also made him feel guilty, how happy he was when his brother was still trapped with the Snakes and Finn still missing. Remus seemed to recognize his shift in emotion and smiled sadly, reaching across the table to tangle their hands together.

“We’re going to figure something out.” He said quietly before taking a sip of coffee, not once letting go of Sirius’ hand but playing with his fingers absentmindedly. It made it a bit tricky to eat, but Sirius couldn’t say he minded one bit.

He hoped Remus was right.

***

“Update?” Talker asked as soon as Remus and Sirius entered the office, looking tired. He kept pace with them as they walked, eager for a response. He and Finn were pretty close, constantly cracking jokes and trading jabs and playing pranks. But then again, Finn was a very outgoing guy - he was pretty close with a lot of people.

Sure enough, as they rounded the corner they found a gathering of people outside Remus’ office, all friends. All worried.

And a stranger standing next to Kasey, watching them as they approached. Red hair, brown eyes, faint freckles.

Remus didn’t have to ask who he was.

He stuck his hand out for the agent to shake. “O’Hara.”

Alex shook his hand briefly, soulful eyes a myriad of warring emotions. “Please tell me what the hell is going on.”

Remus looked at him, then the rest of the people around his office. They all needed to know what was going on, but he felt like Alex deserved the chance to hear this on his own, without the prying eyes of a bunch of strangers.

Sirius seemed to know exactly what he needed. It was like a sixth sense. “Lions, to the conference room! I’ll tell you what we know.” He gave Remus a warm smile, one that he was helpless to return. Last night was… blinding, as strange as it sounded. Sirius was all he could see now - the bright, expressive eyes, full, addictive lips, and wow he needed to get off this train of thought quickly. He had important things to do today.

Sirius seemed to know exactly what was on his mind. His smile turned secretive and sly before he shot Remus a wink and led the way to the conference room, leaving only Alex. Remus looked at him, then jerked his head towards his office. Alex followed after him and instantly sat down in one of the extra chairs, eyes never leaving Remus. He looked tired, worried, desperate for answers.

Remus sighed, an ache in his chest. He couldn’t imagine what it must be like for him, dealing with his younger brother being kidnapped. If it was Jules, Remus would lose his mind. “Let’s just start at the beginning, ok?” And so he did. He went over the general premise of the mission, what they’d done so far, and what went wrong. Alex listened quietly, taking it in.

When they were finally caught up Alex leaned back in his chair, raking a hand through his hair - a motion that was so Finn that Remus had to hold his breath for a second before releasing it. “So do we have any leads? What’s the plan?”

“We’ve got three possible locations. We’re going to try to narrow it down and then send in the two operatives we’ve already got in Slytherin.”

“Finn’s partners.”

There was something about the way Alex said that. The wrinkle in his brow, eyes hard and unflinching. Unforgiving. Remus gave him a look, keeping his voice neutral. “It was a freak accident, O’Hara. Not their fault.”

He wasn’t brave enough to tell the agent how much of that fault rested on his own shoulders. He was basically in charge of this mission. He’d been the one in charge of planning, giving them the go-ahead, looking out for signs of danger. There were signs of the op going bad - he could see that now, in hindsight. But hindsight was always 20/20, wasn’t it?

And now he was sitting here, explaining to the brother of the agent he let get kidnapped that they didn’t really have a solid plan. They were still scattered and struggling to recollect themselves after that disaster of a mission. What exactly was he supposed to say?

Alex ignored his earlier attempt at placation. “You’re telling me that your plan is to send one agent and a rookie safe-cracker into Snakes headquarters and break my brother out? That’s all you’ve got?”

“The rest of us are already on their radar. If we sent in other agents-”

“Bullshit.” Alex growled, leaning forward dangerously. And really, Remus couldn’t fault him for any of this. Their bond ran deep, apparently. “You’re taking down the Snakes anyways, what’s wrong with pushing up the timeline a little? We don’t need to be covert anymore, we need to be dominant and aggressive.”

“That makes your brother collateral damage,” Remus reasoned. “We go in guns-blazing, the first thing they’ll do is make it a hostage situation.”

Alex sighed, his shoulders slumping and all the fight leaving him in a split-second, frustration rolling off him in waves. “Fuck.”

“We’ve got an ex-Snake on the team and a guy on the inside. Potentially,” he felt like he had to add, because he still wasn’t sure what to think of the younger Black brother. Sirius trusted him, sure, but was that enough?

One wrong move and they could lose three agents. This required precision and cunning, not hot-headed recklessness.

“We’re going to do our best to get him out of there.” Remus finally finished, trying to instill confidence with just the words. Alex just smiled sadly.

“Good media answer, right there.”

Remus’ phone buzzed twice in his pocket, signaling an incoming message. He fumbled with it for a second, then looked down at the screen. “Well, I might have a better answer in a few minutes. One of his partners says they’ve got news.”

Remus just hoped it was finally some good news.

***

Logan was still pacing - back and forth, back and forth. It wasn’t a stressed pace this time, exactly. His stride was longer, full of pent-up energy and restlessness. Leo was switching between watching him and reading the messages Regulus sent the night before to Loops and Sirius, who were both listening intently.

“So let me get this straight.” Remus said through the computer speakers. “Regulus said he’d turn off one of the cameras that overlooks a side door, sneak you two in, and then help you get both him and Finn out?” He and Sirius were sitting close together at the conference table, sneaking glances at each other when they thought no one was looking.

Leo smiled knowingly. Good for them.

“Yeah.” Logan said as he continued to pace. “Get in, get them, get out. Simple.”

“Well,” Leo said, stretching out the word and watching Logan’s eyes snap to him. Yeah, he wasn’t going to like this. “According to Reg, one of Riddle’s flash drives is there too - in a safe in his office. Logan can get Finn, and I can-”

“No.”

“Logan,” Leo sighed, giving him a look. “After we get Finn out, they’ll put that place on lockdown. We won’t get another shot at getting this drive and you know it. Plus Riddle’s not even there right now. It’s the perfect opportunity.”

“When did he even tell you that?” Logan asked, staring at him incredulously. “I don’t remember this at all.”

“That would be because I’ve been texting him this morning because I knew you’d react like this.” Leo rushed to finish his sentence and be heard over Logan’s loud dissent.

“React how? Logically?”

“Over-protectively.” Leo corrected, watching the aggravation return to his pacing again as he grumbled something under his breath. “If we get this drive, that only leaves the ones Lestrange and Riddle have on them. Reg said he could probably grab the one Bellatrix has - he can replace it with the fake I slipped into his pocket at the gala-”

“Nut, you can’t be serious.”

Leo glared at him. “It’s a perfectly solid plan.”

“And it’s dangerous!”

“Are you forgetting what our jobs are?” Leo asked with an incredulous laugh. “Everything we do is dangerous.”

“Leo.”

The blond looked to the laptop, where Sirius and Loops were looking back at him. “Back me up here.”

Remus glanced over at Sirius, then back to Leo. “It’s risky, but if you feel like you can do it-”

“I can.” Leo said, no room for argument. The kid who was nervously drumming his fingers against his thigh and staring off into space before his first mission was long gone, replaced by a calm, confident agent - who still drummed his fingers on a regular basis, but who was self-assured and comfortable with his role. Logan wasn’t exactly sure when that had happened, but he was proud nonetheless - even if he was still terrified.

“When’s Reg going for Lestrange’s drive?” Sirius asked, in a similar state as Logan. Worried, but knowing he was fighting a losing battle. This was happening whether they liked it or not.

“She puts it in the same spot every night before she goes to bed, so he’ll grab it right before we get there when she’s already asleep. If we go really early in the morning - like really early - everyone should be asleep, save for a few.”

“They’re cocky like that,” Sirius added, “No one’s ever been dumb enough to try to break in, so they won’t be as prepared for it.”

Leo frowned, not sure whether to take offense or not. “Thanks?”

“So how long do you think getting into the safe will take?” Remus asked, keeping all of them on track, as usual. The steadiness and predictability calmed Logan down, just a little.

Leo shrugged. “Don’t know, depends on what kind of safe it is. Reg doesn’t know.”

“So you’re going in blind.” Logan finished, anxiety churning in his gut. That calmness had lasted all of three seconds. He didn’t like this. There was so much that could go wrong; it was risky enough sneaking in to get Finn out of there, but adding this on top of it? What if one of them got caught? What if all of them got caught? What if Regulus wasn’t as trustworthy as Sirius claimed? What if they were just walking into another trap?

What if, what if, what if. There were too many variables to this, too much at risk.

He’d never really hated his job before. In the past he’d loved the suspense, the intrigue, the unpredictability. He’d grown up wanting a career that had action and adventure, just like the movies he and his sisters used to watch. Now all the things he used to love were the things that were stressing him out the most. But then, he’d never had partners before - definitely not partners he was halfway in love with.

He was starting to hate this job now.

Leo’s voice brought him back to the conversation. “Not really. It’s either going to be a digital safe or manual. I’d crack a digital safe the same way I cracked the ones at the banks, and manual safes are kind of like giant locks. I just feel for the sticking points and do the math.”

“There’s math?” Sirius asked, looking disgusted. Logan thought back to Finn saying the exact same words, all three of them squished together on the bed with a nature documentary playing in the background, warm and content and relaxed. No stress, no sense of impending disaster, no one missing.

He wanted that again, more than anything.

He felt like this wasn’t the way to do it, though. Which was ironic, seeing that he was the one who usually wanted to be reckless. That was his M.O. - the rough, hotheaded agent who wasn’t afraid to take some risks. He completely changed his tune when those risks endangered his partners.

He couldn’t lose them - either of them. He wasn’t sure what he’d do if...

But arguing against this rescue mission was like leading a horse to water - pointless. The only thing left to do was to prepare. So Logan tuned the conversation out and started planning for every possible outcome he could think of. He wasn’t going to be left just reacting, not this time. He was going into this with every last detail mapped out, every potential misstep accounted for, every contingency plan organized in his head.

He wasn’t going to let anything go wrong. He couldn’t.

***

The alarm Leo and Logan had set was essentially useless, seeing that it found the two of them already awake, going over the plan in their heads. Logan stretched his arm out to shut it off, then rolled over to look at Leo. Blue eyes were already staring back, alight with optimism- a stark contrast to how Logan was feeling. He just hoped tonight wasn’t the night he would be disappointed.

“We’re going to get him back.” The blond said, no sleepiness to his voice as he softly leaned in to kiss Logan sweetly, then more enthusiastically. Logan let himself get lost in it for a while, a heart-wrenching distraction, accepting kiss after excited kiss with a sigh against soft lips. He took the lead a second later, pushing Leo back into the mattress and pressing their chests together, getting as close as he could manage and relaxing into the warmth.

“And then we’ll all be together again.” He added after a while, trying to reassure both Leo and himself as he kissed a dimple and earned a smile, bright in the early-morning darkness. “And we can finally have that talk.”

Leo hummed happily and pulled him down for one last lingering kiss before shimmying his way out from under Logan and getting to his feet, hair an absolute mess from a night of tossing and turning and Logan’s hands. Logan felt strangely proud of himself for that.

“Let’s go, let’s go, let’s go.” Leo chanted, dashing to his suitcase to grab clothes. His enthusiasm visibly shown in every action - brushing his teeth, pulling on his shoes, grabbing his tools. Logan soon found himself dressed and ready to go, turning his earpiece on and testing his mic. His gun was loaded and ready, a comforting weight at his hip. Leo’s voice echoed in his ear as he tested his mic, loud and clear. His tools were all packed up and smuggled away in his pockets, determination written across his face.

They were going to get him back.

Logan pulled up the directions to the address Regulus had sent them and they hurried to their car, blasting the heat as high as it would go to try and defrost the windows. The clock read 4:13 am as they pulled out of the hotel parking lot and headed down the street.

The drive was tense with anticipation and nerves and adrenaline. Leo’s leg never stopped bouncing from the passenger’s seat as he stared out the window, clearly lost in thought because it was still pitch black outside - he definitely wasn’t looking at anything. Logan kept his eyes on the road ahead and his thoughts on their mission, going over the details one last time as the navigation app instructed him to turn right.

The building they were infiltrating was on the very outskirts of Slytherin, somewhat secluded and run-of-the-mill. If Logan wasn’t sure this was the right place, he would never have guessed this to be a Snakes’ building. Which was probably exactly what they were going for.

Logan drove straight past the building, continuing down the road for a while until he figured they wouldn’t raise suspicion. He put the car in park, switched the headlights off, then turned to face his partner.

“You ready?”

The resulting grin was luminous. “You know it.”

Logan nodded, nerves gnawing away at his stomach, and got out of the car. He and Leo snuck around to the southeast side of the building where they found a door, the light above it flickering occasionally. Leo sent Logan a look, then rapped on the door with his knuckles twice.

A few seconds passed by, then the door opened silently. Regulus Black stared back at them, face as impassive as always. The two agents stepped inside without another word, watching as Regulus closed the door behind them and locked it before turning to face them again.

“I’ve got Bellatrix’s drive,” he said, so quietly that Leo and Logan had to lean in a little to hear him. “Snagged it about twenty minutes ago and replaced it with the fake. She’ll never know the difference.”

“Perfect.” Leo grabbed Logan’s forearm, eyes bright and intense. “You go get Finn, I’ll grab the drive. Meet you back at the rendezvous.”

Logan still didn’t like the idea. He didn’t like the thought of being separated. “Leo-”

“No one’s out this early, it’ll be the easiest grab of my life. I’ll be careful - I’ll be so careful, Tremz. You gotta trust me.” He pressed their foreheads together briefly and Logan allowed himself that one moment to close his eyes and press back, inhaling deeply. He still smelled like the hotel’s shampoo, clean and citrusy. After all this, Logan didn’t think he’d ever be able to forget the smell - or the memories that came with it. He couldn’t quite figure out if that was a bad thing or not. Because on the one hand, there was stress and kidnappings and hurt. But on the other hand, there was exciting, brand new kisses and falling asleep in his arms and the comfort of just being with him.

“Make it quick, ok?” he said finally, reluctantly leaning away and meeting blue eyes. Leo nodded, giving his hand a squeeze, and turned to set off down the hallway. Logan only allowed himself half a second to look after him - if he watched any longer, he just knew he’d start chasing after him, blindly following an angel and not caring where he was going. He’d probably follow him anywhere, if he could. He faced Regulus again instead, who was looking decidedly awkward. Logan just raised an eyebrow at him and motioned for him to lead the way.

His heart hammered louder and louder the more they walked, excitement and worry and adrenaline snowballing together and making his head spin. He could hear Leo’s quiet breathing through the coms, measured and steady and constant like the tide pushing and pulling against the shore. That, more than anything he tried to tell himself, calmed him down.

They reached a nondescript door and stopped in front of it. Logan glanced at Regulus, then back at the door. This was it. Finn was on the other side of that door. He was a paradoxical combination of excited and terrified of what he’d find on the other side of that door.

“I’m just going to wait out here,” Regulus said, moving so that his back was against the wall. “I’ve already witnessed you all soft and mushy tonight - I don’t think I can handle seeing it again. I’ll keep an eye out from here.”

Logan sent him a grin, incredibly pleased with himself and completely unashamed.

He took one last, deep breath and opened the door.

The sound of the door must have woken Finn, because the first thing Logan saw was the shifting of shoulder and back muscles as the redhead sat up with an annoyed grumble. “What the fuck is so important that you feel the need to wake me up this early?” He demanded, reaching up to further tousle his hair as he swiveled around to face the door. Their eyes locked and Finn froze, staring at him with his mouth agape and wide, wide brown eyes, one of which was blackened and swollen. There was blood at the corner of his mouth, dark and distracting. Logan’s breath left him in a rush, like he’d been the one punched in the face.

“Lo,” Finn whispered, that one syllable barely loud enough to reach Logan’s ears. He sat up straighter in an instant and continued to stare, as if he couldn’t quite believe his eyes. “Logan?”

That was all it took to spur Logan into action. He crossed the room in five quick paces and then he was on his knees in front of Finn, reaching for him hesitantly. Finn practically launched himself at him, arms around his neck and holding tight - almost bruisingly. Logan didn’t care. He’d gladly take the bruises if it meant having his partner in his arms again. It hadn’t even been that long since Logan had seen him, but it felt like an entire lifetime. He hugged Finn closer, probably holding him too tight, before leaning back and looking him over. Frantic hands passed over skin and clothing, feeling for injuries.

“You ok?” He asked, reaching up to tilt Finn’s face so that he could examine the black eye and split lip. Calloused fingers traced gingerly over constellations of freckles, marred by purples and greens and yellows. “God, Finn-”

Finn laughed a little, reaching up to still Logan’s hand and pressing it to his stubbled cheek instead. Logan could feel his smile against his palm and melted. “I’m ok. It looks worse than it actually is, I’m sure.”

You’re still gorgeous, Logan thought as he swiped a thumb across his cheek. He wanted to drown in the sight in front of him. Finn wasn’t great but he was ok and considering the circumstances, that was all Logan could really ask for. He was still livid, of course. And the ones who’d hurt Finn would get what was coming for them. That much he could guarantee.

“You shouldn’t be here.” Finn murmured, still leaning into Logan’s touch. Logan just shook his head firmly, eyes serious. How did Finn expect him to leave him behind? He clearly had no idea just how little they could function without him, the gaping hole he’d left in his absence.

Finn looked over Logan’s shoulder, then back to Logan with worried eyes. “Leo?” He asked and let Logan help him to his feet, favoring his left leg. Logan tightened his grip on his biceps and steadied him before answering.

“Currently? In Riddle’s office cracking a safe.”

Leo’s voice, calm and even, came through the coms. “Tell Finn I said hey.” Logan grinned.

“He says hey.”

Finn looked offended. He leaned closer to the mic Logan was wearing at the collar of his shirt, making the brunet still. The expression on his face - a comical combination of panic and turned-on - made Finn smile as he spoke. “You’re breaking me out of here after I was kidnapped and the only thing you can think of to say is hey?”

“Well, I was planning on saving the sentimental shit for when I actually see you.” Leo said distractedly from his spot on the floor in front of a truly ancient safe, rotating the dial slowly and feeling for the last remaining sticking point. “It’s good to hear your voice, though.”

He heard Logan relay the message to Finn, and then Finn’s resulting coo. Leo laughed under his breath at the sound right as the safe opened with a loud click, opening to reveal nothing inside but a blue and gray flash drive.

“I can’t believe this is the only thing he keeps in a safe like this.” Leo grumbled, reaching forward to make the switch-

Right as the office door opened.

Leo whirled around, slipping the real flash drive into his pocket as he faced whoever had walked in on him.

Unnatural yellow eyes stared back.

And a gun was pointed at his chest.

He could tell Riddle recognized him from the party by the curl of his lips that formed the beginnings of a smile. Cold dread washed over Leo at the bizarre sight. He wasn’t sure anyone had seen the leader of the Snakes smile before. If they did, they hadn’t lived to tell the tale. Leo’s heart raced as all he could do was stand there and stare. His gun sat heavily at his hip, but he knew reaching for it would only speed up the inevitable. He stayed still.

Leo’s partners were still talking over the coms, happy and ignorant of the situation going on right down the hall from them. As Leo stared down the barrel of a gun, he thought maybe it was for the best. Riddle wouldn’t react well to breaking Finn out of here, he knew that much. At least this would be a good distraction - if Riddle was focused on him, he wouldn’t be focused on his partners. Maybe they’d be able to get out of here before Riddle even realized the real reason Leo was in the building.

He’d rather die than give either of them up. He was a little scared at the honesty behind that statement… and the likelihood of it happening much sooner than he’d hoped.

Riddle adjusted his sights without saying a single word, finger against the trigger. Leo sucked in a harsh breath and braced himself.

Bang.

[flatstarcarcosa]

Thinking about nights like this where I don't sleep, and zaeed keeping me company. He dozes, here and there, but never really falls out entirely.

I finally decide maybe its time for breakfast and another round of meds, maybe I can will my body into comfort.

******

"Do you want some eggs?" I ask. He mumbles, sleepily, and blinks a few times. I caught him dozing. "Do you want eggs?"

"I'll eat whenever you're cooking," he says, voice thick with the sleep he's been at once chasing and fighting. His words tend to jumble together, a gravel driveway of mixed up consonants that surfaces from deep in his chest.

I frown.

"Thats not what I asked," I say, pushing the laptop off my thighs and sliding over to plop myself across his lap. "I asked if you want eggs for breakfast."

"I know what you asked," he says. He reaches down, fingers trailing over my side and across my shoulder until his hand settles in my hair. "I said I'll eat whenever you're cooking."

I frown, more.

He hasn't said if he wants the goddamn eggs, and I just want to know how many to make.

And then it hits me; all those little moments you never consider as they're happening, you just file them away in your memory banks as they pass.

A contented groan as he picks the empty plates off the table, pauses to lean down and kiss my cheek.

"You do make a fantastic goddamn roast."

A metal spoon sliding against the inside of a metal bowl, an attempt to scrape up the very last dregs of stew.

"Thought you were wasting credits on that goddamn crock pot, but at least being cooped up in this ship is bearable with something better than field rations."

A pause in chewing. A raised eyebrow when he swallows.

"This goddamn cake is one of those gluten fucking free monstrosities? I honestly wouldn't have known if you hadn't told on yourself."

I return to the present, dragged forth by the feeling of him bumping his knee against me.

"Feed me or don't, but I gotta take a goddamn piss," he grumbles. I hum and sit up, disentangling myself from him and staring off into the dark of the bedroom. The bed shifts as he rises, and the bathroom door shuts most of the way before he hits the light.

"I'll eat whenever you're cooking."

The toilet flushes, the sink runs, and the light is turned out before he opens the bathroom door and pads back across the room. I am still staring into the dark, and stubbornly ignoring the tears in the corner of my eyes.

His fingers trail up my side again, searching for my hair and settling to brush through it at the base of my skull. He leans down, plants a sloppy kiss on the top of my head. I blink away the wetness, dare to sniff up the lump in the back of my throat and reach up to wipe at my eyes.

He catches my hand on the way back down, pulls me to my feet.

"You ever clean the frying pan after those burgers the other night?" he asks. He leads me to the kitchen, where turning on the light answers the question.

"God damn it." I glare at the frying pan, still sitting on the stove and packed now with congealed grease from the pound and a half of beef I turned into "burger crimes" the last time I cooked dinner.

He chuckles and moves it to the sink, hitting the tap for hot water and nudging me towards the fridge with his hip. I stumble, just slightly and catch myself on the door handle. I pause as I pull open the door and he turns to the sink, back towards me and the faintest slivers of sunrise beginning to creep over the skies of Bekenstein.

So this is where I have landed, after so much time falling aimlessly and wanting only for the crash to meet me faster; with a man who will not freely and recklessly say I love you, but who instead looked up and planted his feet and said I bet I can catch that.

A stranger, for all purposes, who caught the briefest glimpse of the darkest part of my existence and the bloody, gaping wound behind the words fuck I'm ODing again and discovered there was still something in him that could break apart at the sight of it.

An implacable, stubborn, goddamn jackass that said if no one else is going to dive into your incurable insanity and save you from drowning I guess I'll fucking do it and then proceeded to simply build a dock in the middle of it.

Perhaps, I think, as I watch steam from the sink puff into the air, it makes perfect sense in a way that is almost laughably stupid that it would take a man permanently on fire to boil away enough water that I am able to stand once again.

I pull the carton of eggs from the fridge, abandon them on the counter and refuse to acknowledge the trembling of my jaw as wrap my arms around his waist and press my face into his spine. He shifts, hands caked in soap and grease and pausing over the frying pan as he tries and fails to look at me over his shoulder.

"Christ," he says, softly, "it's just goddamn eggs."

"I know," I say. It comes out as a hiccup, and I cannot bring myself to hate myself for it. "But it's not. I'm..."

Stuck, again. Even after all this time-- so much time-- it catches in my throat like some rabid beast that sinks its teeth into the words and tears them to bloody bits before they have a chance to get free.

The frying pan clangs against the sink and the water steams more as he runs the water hot and washes the grease from his hands. He leans forward, pulling the towel from the rack in the window and making use of it before nudging me with his elbow. I loosen my hold on his waist and he turns in my arms.

Wordlessly, still-warm hands cup either side of my face, pulling it up and forward and forcing me to meet his gaze and reminding me that he used to stake his life on picking up bloody bits of mess and turning it into a finished production that resulted in a job well goddamn done.

His thumbs brush over my damp cheeks and I wonder, not if that dark part of my existence is still there, but if it is visible once more because I have slipped up, or if because sometimes he drags it kicking and screaming into the light just to remind it that it does not get to run roughshod over the rest of me.

He pulls me closer, enveloping me in flame and pressing his forehead to mine before following with his mouth. He tastes like mint from toothpaste and menthol from cigarettes and smells freshly like the citrus in the dish soap and stagnantly like the lake water from our swim the night before.

It is just eggs.

But it is also everything else and he does not let anything else escape his grasp. He kisses me until it begins to hurt and his fingertips press into my skin.

He pulls the rabid beast from its perch, and executes it in the only way that matters: he disregards it completely.

When he releases me but keeps me close enough that I still feel his breath on my face, I let out the faintest of sobs and his thumbs brushes the tears away once more.

"I'm sorry," I breathe. He sighs, and then forces a chuckle.

"It's just goddamn eggs, love."

And it is, also, everything else, and for the first time in my life I begin to think that maybe,

maybe there is room for it all.