#(i love his casual tommy fits. i wish they would let him wear these to the paddock)

[russellius]

@.mercedesamgf1: George visits Brixworth 😁 A great opportunity to touch base with the Team behind our power units and answer their questions ahead of the last six races of 2024 👊

[ptergwen]

smoke and mirrors

⇢ richkid!tom x richkid!reader ⇠

w/c: 4.1k

warnings: swearing, drinking, light angst, and implied smut

summary: because of your mother’s insistence on a pristine family image and tom’s messy one, you deny your true feelings for him

a/n: ok ok ok the pics of tom in monaco really made me think and i had to get everything out of my system so here we are! thank you and enjoy x

-

your living room is engulfed by a hushed chatter that comes from far too many guests. half the people, you hardly know. it’s overcrowded, superficial, and the last place you want to be. it’s one of your mother’s get-togethers, as she likes to call them. these things are always far from the casual affairs they sound like.

weeks go into planning, caterers and decorators making themselves at home in yours. the family’s image is everything to your mom, so being a good hostess is her top priority. ironically, she’s more concerned with throwing her gatherings than raising you. so much for family, huh?

the only reason you agreed to make an appearance tonight is that tom might do the same. he’s a really good friend, someone you’ve been able to count on through all the mess that is your lives. you met in high school, when he moved from london to the states. his dad was offered a job promotion he couldn’t pass up. plus, tom and his brothers would be receiving a stellar private education here in america.

it was a win for everyone, especially you. the freckle faced boy who got lost on his way to english class became your closest confidant. tom’s company is such a sweet escape. he’s not interested in opera or the stock market like most people you meet are. he sneaks you out to go on walks at dawn and does shots with you until you can’t stand straight.

as you two continue to grow together, revelations about yourselves have come to light. what you want beyond your inheritances, who you want beyond friendship. you figured out the second part on a faithful night recently. tom showed up to your place with a bottle of tequila. after you drank it down through lots of lime chasers and giggles, he kissed you. you didn’t kiss back.

your heart said to go for it, but your mind pulled you back in. you were so shocked and overcome with new feelings, you froze up. that, and you’d infuriate your mother. although she cares about tom a great deal, she loathes his public figure. he’s always getting papped in places and with people he shouldn’t be. the two of you together would just destroy her.

you still want to please your mom at the end of the day, no matter how deep under your skin she gets.

tom immediately apologized and tried play it off as him being drunk. you grew up with him, became part of each other’s families, which means you know him well enough to know he was lying. he meant every second his lips were on yours.

what you need to do now is something you’ve meant to for a while. the only problem is that you’re stuck at your mother’s party, and tom hasn’t shown up yet.

“y/n, darling,” your mom calls for your attention. she’s dragged you into a conversation with some bloggers, but you haven’t spoken a word. “why don’t you tell us about your trip to spain last summer?” she plasters on her award winning grin and squeezes your shoulder. it’s time to play along.

“oh, it was beautiful,” you halfheartedly reply, more to the bloggers than her. they nod in clear interest. one jots down notes. “we went for a few weeks and visited a bunch of different cities. i’d love to go back sometime.” the typical press formatted answer earns your mom’s approval. you’re off the hook. your eyes start to wander around the room, hoping to set on tom.

“we?” the woman taking notes asks. must everyone pry? “my friend and i,” you shortly reply. you’re standing up on your tiptoes to see over the crowd. you’d think six inch heels would do the trick. “i’m actually looking for him right now, so if you’ll excuse me,” you offer a polite smile and silently pray they won’t ask who. unfortunately, your wishes don’t come true.

the other blogger, a short and stubborn man, speaks up. “just a friend you say? come on, tell us. who’s the lucky fella?” he inquires. your mother raises a firm eyebrow, signaling for you not to.

tom has a reputation for his reckless behavior. it’s your mom’s worst nightmare when the media associates your names under most circumstances. you’re representing her, so she does whatever she can to control how you’re seen. you’re constantly in the papers, being a young socialite and all. it sucks.

“he’d like to stay out of the tabloids, sorry,” you cover for tom, on your mom’s behalf. “i should really go. it was nice meeting you.” the bloggers don’t bother to hide their disappointment as you shake their hands. your mother rubs your back in approval. “thank you for doing that. we’ll talk later,” she speaks lowly. “bye, mom!” you practically make a run for it. 

weaving through the sea of people, you end up by the main entrance. it’s hard not to get lost even though it’s your house. the place is packed with girls just a couple years older than you, wearing pearls around their necks. men’s strong colognes flow through the air. you’re in a form fitting red slip dress and louboutins yourself.

smoke and mirrors is what they call it. you show the pretty parts to distract from your ugly ones.

harrison suddenly comes waltzing in with a lady on either of his arms. you’d expect nothing less. he’s tom’s best friend besides you, considering the failed kiss attempt didn’t change that. their parents worked at the london branch of the same company. they each came to the states and met you. you happily introduced them to your world, helping to make it theirs as well.

“haz!” you meet him at the front door. he’s smirking while he leads the women inside. “fancy seeing you here, isn’t it?” he jokes. “very funny. i died laughing,” you deadpan, curiously eyeing harrison’s plus two. they merely giggle. “listen, have you seen tom anywhere? if he’s coming.” you’re fighting back a frown. “why wouldn’t he be?” harrison questions in a more serious tone this time.

“long story. you have guests to entertain, so i won’t get into it now,” you decide and manage a small smile instead. he perks up. “right. i’ll let you know if i see him?” nodding, you give him a wave goodbye. “enjoy yourself.” “you too, love. cheers!” the girls lean into him, harrison wiggling his eyebrows at you. he’s ridiculous.

hours pass by without word of tom. it isn’t like him to miss an event, especially if you’re in attendance. you despise these exhausting nights, and he’s supposed to be your rock during them. he should have his arm draped around your shoulders, whispering silly remarks to you while you hide out somewhere. you miss him more than you thought possible.

you’re just about to give up when you spot nikki ushering her husband inside. behind them follows tom, clad in a grey checkered suit with his locks perfectly tousled. he’s here. you waited the whole night, and he finally came.

tom kisses his mom on the cheek before strutting over to the drink table, not without a few reporters hassling him. they’re probably looking for another holland scandal to break. he declines their requests for comments on this and opinions on that, instead pulling up a chair next to harrison. the two exchange hugs and fix themselves glasses of champagne, you watching their encounter.

harrison fills tom in on the drama he’s missed tonight while they sip their drinks. tom keeps forcing smiles that don’t reach his eyes. he’s fiddling with his fingers, leg bouncing up and down steadily. those are the telltale signs he needs saving. however awkward it may be, you’re going to have to break your silence. it was bound to happen eventually.

“mate, i’m telling you. she fit her entire first right up her-“ “boys,” you cut into harrison’s story, greeting him and tom. his face tints deep pink upon your arrival. “don’t let me stop you. finish your charming anecdote,” you encourage him and subtly glance over at tom. he’s biting back a grin as he sets his elbows on the table.

“not with a lady present. let’s just… pretend you didn’t hear that,” harrison chuckles nervously and hops to his feet. “i’m gonna leave you two to chat.” humming, you move to take his chair. tom sucks in a breath. “what happened to the girls you brought?” you wonder. “they left. said they got bored,” harrison admits, tom stifling laughter. he elbows his friend for that.

“oh, fuck off. i’ll see you later,” he mopes, flicking your arm for good measure. tom salutes him and grabs his nearly empty champagne. “so long, bruv.”

it’s just you and tom now, seated side by side, silently so. he has no intentions of speaking first. he’s too embarrassed, and you don’t blame him. this is on you. you clear your throat before starting the conversation.

“can i top you off?” you tap the bottom of his glass with a tiny smile. tom shakes his head. “i’m alright, thanks.” he finishes the last sip and sets it down, turning to face you. your smile has vanished. “wasn’t sure you were gonna make it. i’m glad you did,” you change the subject. as if he’s considering the sincerity behind your words, tom furrows his eyebrows.

“mum wanted us to. she dragged me and dad straight off the golf course,” he explains and clasps his hands in his lap. his fingers interlock with each other. you fight off the urge to replace them with yours. “we would’ve been here sooner, but the paps are camped outside.” the hint of a smile forms on his lips, at last. “guess it’s not often you get the town’s finest under one roof.”

“you think i’m one of the town’s finest?” you tease, resting your chin in your palm. something flashes behind tom’s eyes. he looks right into yours, scooting closer. “absolutely. you’re the most eligible bachelorette in this whole building.” you allow a toothy grin to spread across your face. “tommy, stop it. you’re too nice to me.”

the nickname is music to his ears. tom looks you up and down, licking his lips simultaneously. “no, seriously. you look gorgeous,” he muses, you pushing at his chest. he exhales a breathy laugh, and you giggle yourself. “red’s definitely your color.” “reverse card. you wear it way better than i do,” you insist. your fingers tug at the collar of his suit. “too bad you didn’t match me.”

you’re relieved you two can talk like you usually do, light flirting and good vibes. it might not be so hard to put the kiss behind you. well, you can’t go on pretending it didn’t happen. you have to at least discuss the fiasco. tom should know why you didn’t reciprocate, then you can take it from there. whether he still has feelings for you, assuming he ever did, will depend on how that turns out.

“not to ruin the fun, but we still have to talk,” you murmur, tom’s body stiffening across from yours. he’s not sure he’s ready to discuss that. “can it wait? we’re at a party,” tom reminds you, running a hand through his styled locks. “yeah, my mother’s. don’t tell me you’re having a good time,” you playfully chastise him. he simply shrugs. “hardly. you’re the best part.”

you ignore the butterflies roaming about your body.

“you won’t mind a quick convo, then. it is with me,” you attempt to persuade him and place a hand on his knee. tom coughs a bit too loudly, the contact surprising him. “you know what? i think i’ll take you up on that drink first,” he decides with a mustered up smile. “coming right up.” you pat his leg before taking his glass. he chews on his lower lip while you poor the bubbling liquid. that was certainly… odd.

you slide tom his champagne back with an exaggerated wink. tom scoffs at this. “mm, thanks. care to join me?” he brings the alcohol to his lips, eyes never leaving yours. your mother specifically said no drinking tonight, since the press would be here. screw your mother, though. “please. could you hand me a glass?” you eagerly grab the champagne bottle. tom searches for an empty cup next to him.

you two are unspoken drinking buddies at this point.

“here you are, darling,” tom drawls, holding out the glass for you. every time he calls you that, you completely melt. “thanks, tommy,” you purr in response. you’re finally pouring your own drink when someone taps you on the shoulder, and hard. you look behind you to find your mother standing with her hands on her hips, less than thrilled. speak of the devil.

“hello, mother. can i help you?” you make sure to ask rudely. she responds with a smile that’s obviously fake. if tom weren’t here, you’d be getting scolded. “yes, my darling. those bloggers from earlier were hoping you’d finish your interview.” your mom shakes your shoulder in a motherly way. you squint up at her. “didn’t they leave hours ago-“ “they’re back,” she sharply informs you.

she’s lying, and you have a hunch as to why.

frowning, you hold tom’s hand in both of yours. “sorry, this won’t take long. why don’t you go find tuwaine?” you suggest instead. “he’s around here somewhere.” tom gives you an understanding nod and laces your fingers together, even if it’s only for a moment. “must be chatting up some producers or whatnot. i’ll see if i can help.” he’s such an incredible friend to everyone. he deserves the same from you.

“thomas, so lovely to see you,” your mom interrupts. tom stands up, kissing both her cheeks out of courtesy. “you, too. what a wonderful party. thank you for having us.” despite what the rest of the world believes, his manners are impeccable. “of course. give nikki my best, will you?” your mom puts her hands on his shoulders. he grins at her. “definitely. take care, mrs. y/l/n.” “always a pleasure,” she states, nudging you to come along with her.

you shoot tom one last apologetic look as your mother pulls you along and towards the crowd.

tom is no idiot. he’s well aware how she really feels about him.

when a swarm of guests is surrounding you, your mom lets go. you scowl, crossing your arms over your chest. “why would you do that? i haven’t seen tom in days.” she sighs without a care. “isn’t it time you branch out? expand your social circle?” her manicured fingers ruffle your hair. you push away her touch. “i’m social enough. we were in the middle of something really important.”

you begin to walk away, but your mother takes your arm. “whatever you’re about to do, it’s a mistake. he’ll make a fool of you,” she practically spits. yanking your arm from her grasp, you laugh bitterly. “of me, or of the family name? look around, mom.” you gesture to the spot beside her where your dad should be. “as far as i’m concerned, i have no family except tom. i’m gonna go check on him.”

you’re gone before your mom can stop you. she simply stands there, utterly mortified by what you said.

you run around the house to find tom, stumbling in your heels and not giving a fuck. you’d truly meant the part about him being your family. all the holland’s, honestly. they’re the most genuine and caring souls, and you don’t want to lose the one you’re closest to because of your mother’s delusions. 

tom is in a circle with harrison and tuwaine, the three of them chuckling amongst themselves. you’d hate to bug him, but this can’t wait anymore.

“uh, tom?” you mumble his name, appearing behind him. he steps away with another quiet laugh. “hey, y/n/n. that was quick, hm?” your face gives away your distress. his whole demeanor shifting, tom reaches for your hands. “what is it, love? is something the matter?” “just… come with me,” you croak out.

you manage to smile at harrison and tuwaine, dropping one of tom’s hands so you can lead him upstairs. they each return the smile and share curious looks.

following behind you, tom keeps your hand tight in his own. he’d thought you were going to grill him about the kiss that barely happened. it seems like this is a much more pressing matter. his outburst of emotions can be discussed another time. now, it’s time to deal with yours.

you drag tom into the first room on the second floor, which is your dad’s study. he’s away on business this weekend, so he luckily couldn’t make the party. tom sits down in the office chair. you sit up on the desk, in front of him. your lip quivers the second his worried features come into view.

“y/n/n, what’s going on? why are we in here?” tom wonders, his tone soft. your heart clenches. “i- i wanted us to have some privacy when i told you this,” you sniffle out and blink back the tears forming. you’re sort of shaken from the conversation with your mother, and mostly because you have no idea how tom will react to your confession.

his hands come to stay on your thighs, right below your dress. they feel warm against your bare skin.

“tell me what? i’m listening, yeah?” tom gazes up at you with so much love. “lay it all out for me.” god, he’s fucking amazing. if only you knew where to start. “do you, um…” you trail off, letting your tears subside and words settle. “do you remember when your family made your big debut in town?”

a grin replaces tom’s frown, painting his beautiful face. “how could i forget? you made it quite memorable.” he traces circles on your thigh and elicits a giggle from you. “i spilled a whole thing of soda on your white fucking button down,” you recount with a lighthearted sigh. “right before your dad was supposed to introduce you to everyone, too.”

tom presses his tongue into his cheek to hold back another grin. “took ages to get it out. dad went mad when i didn’t show.” he cocks his head to the side, you leaning back on your hands. “you held me hostage in the laundry room so you could do that bloody stain stick.” your mouth drops open in mock offense. “i had to clean up my mess! i wasn’t gonna let the world meet you covered in pepsi.”

that was one of your earliest memories together. the holland’s threw a party and invited everyone who was willing to attend. they had been hoping to properly introduce themselves to the town, and this was their way of doing so. although yours and tom’s friendship was fairly new, you spent all night together because you had experience with such events.

tom’s dad was making a speech to thank the guests for coming. you and him listened from the snack table, until his name was called. he rushed to go up there while you were pouring yourself a drink. he’d bumped into you, and the bottle ended up all over him. you snuck tom right off to his laundry room.

you’d felt terrible as he stood there shirtless and blushing, you aggressively swiping his button down with a stain stick.

“why do you bring that up?” tom questions and continues circling your skin. you purse your lips. “i dunno. it was the last party i actually enjoyed,” you admit, putting your hand over his that rests on your thigh. “like to reminisce when i’m suffering through one of my mother’s.” his eyes shift to where your hands are laced. “i see,” he affirms. “so, is that… all you wanted to talk about?” “not even close,” you laugh out.

a burst of courage coursing through your body, you say it. “when you kissed me the other night-“ “i won’t do it again,” tom cuts in, trying to avoid the rejection he thinks you’ll give him. “it was a mistake, and i’m so sorry. our friendship is more important than my feelings.” you seem excited to hear that, though it’s not for the reason tom expects. “you do have feelings for me?”

he’d forgotten about his i was drunk excuse.

“um, yeah. i do,” he admits, cheeks rosy and lip caught in his teeth. “but, i’ll learn to put them aside, if that’s what’s best.” “no, no. it isn’t,” you dismiss him and put your free hand on his chest. “i love you, tom. that’s what i was really trying to tell you.” your words bring an instant grin to his face. he chuckles in disbelief, standing from the chair.

“fuck, thank god. that’s all i’ve ever wanted to hear.” he’s between your legs now, his hands moving up to your hips. you’re beaming at him as your arms snake around his neck. a burning question comes to tom’s mind. “hang on. why didn’t you kiss me back, then?” he almost whispers, thumb brushing over your hipbone. “this is gonna sound weird, but… my mom,” you reluctantly let out.

“you’re gonna have to elaborate,” tom prompts you and raises an eyebrow. you can’t hold back your eye roll. “she’s never been a fan of the person you are in the media.” his lips form a line. “i gathered.” your fingers tangle in his curls at the nape of his neck reassuringly. “i was subconsciously scared i would be letting her down in some way, if we were together.”

tom allows your hands to work their way up to his scalp. he exhales contentedly as you play with his ever so soft hair. “i understand, she’s intimidating. what’s changed that brilliant mind of yours about coming clean?” your nose scrunches up when he pokes one of your temples. “oh, yeah. i yelled at her earlier ‘cuz she stole me away from you.” his face lights up. “sexy.” “shut up,” you groan. “someone had to tell her off.”

“good thing it got to be you,” tom agrees with a squeeze at your hip. “‘m proud of you, y/n/n. it’s not easy, standing up to mummy dearest.” you tug on his hair. “like you’d know. nikki is a saint.” “that’s what she’ll have you believe,” he says under his breath, you gasping. his lips turn up in a smirk. “on that note… i love you, too.”

“would’ve been embarrassing if you didn’t say it back,” you acknowledge with a cheesy smile. tom dips his head down to rest his forehead against yours. “yeah, yeah. save the attitude for your mum.” your legs easily wrap around his waist, tom’s breath hot as it hits your face. “let’s give that kiss another go,” you mewl. he doesn’t hesitate to reply. “with pleasure.”

tom’s lips land on yours, you kissing back right away. he smiles into it as your lips gently move together. “about fucking time,” he grumbles, your hands situating in his chocolate curls once again. he’s savoring every second you touch him, kiss him, love him. the taste of your mouth is one he’s craved for longer than you could imagine.

it doesn’t take long for things to heat up, you messing with tom’s hair and tom rubbing your hips. you lay back on the desk as his tongue enters your mouth. holding you by your waist, tom hovers over you. his tongue tangles with yours in a deep kiss. between that and his fingers beginning to massage your thigh, you’re done for. you’re ready to take this a step further by the time he’s kissing down your neck.

“tommy?” you grab onto his shoulders, your head back. his lips detach from your skin with a grin. “yeah, love? ‘s everything okay?” he coos, pressing a final kiss to your collarbone. “more than.” you tilt his chin up to peck his lips. “you wouldn’t happen to have a condom, would you? just thinking ahead.” he laughs breathlessly, reaching into his suit pocket.

“conveniently enough, i do. not sure your dad would like me fucking you on his desk, though.” tom sets his hand on your leg that’s still hooked around his waist. “my room’s always available. carry me?” you make grabby hands and bat your lashes. he hoists you up by your waist, not lifting you just yet. “that would break the news of us, no? your mum’s gonna go apeshit.” he keeps his arms around you, chuckling.

“let her. besides, i know a couple of bloggers that would love to announce our status update.” you peck tom’s lips, grinning as you do. you’re suddenly in the air and being picked up by tom. the surprise of it makes you squeal, clutching onto his broad shoulders instinctively. he gives you the look of adoration that’s reserved for you only.

“we’ll go pop a few bottles with everyone, then we’re celebrating on our own.”

[imagines-by-a-typical-fangirl]

The Perfect Bad Boy (Pt. 13 of 18)

Pairing: Billy Hargrove X Reader

Word count: 3 K

Summary: Working as a lifeguard in the Hawkins Community Pool, you try to fit in after moving from New York. Things were going pretty well when you notice you've been under someone's stare. Billy Hargrove, Hawkins' bad boy, has been staring at you since day one. You never intended to have anything to do with him, judging by the reputation he has. But Billy won't leave you alone, determined to show you his feelings are different this time...

As if your heart flooding you with confusing feelings wasn't enough, there are weird, strange animals lurking in the woods... But those have to be just part of the wild live of the woods surrounding Hawkins... Right?

<- Previous part (12)

Next part (14) ->

{Stranger Things Masterlist}

×

Demodogs

The funfair is everything you thought it would be, and even more. The colorful lights, the music, the games, the kids running around. It's inebriating, beautiful, mesmerizing... You only wish you could forget what you saw on the road... What you saw a while ago and what James told you he saw. Four beasts so far, if you assume those were all different animals. It probably means there are more, right? Nobody was attacked yet, or else you'd know. News travel fast through Hawkins. But even so, the cops need to know, and whatever it is, it has to be controlled. But what you really need is to know what that is. You think you'll feel better once you know the species, so you can do some research and have some peace of mind.

“(Y/N)? Are you there?” Monica shakes your shoulder lightly, dragging you out of your thoughts. “You look a little pale. Are you feeling alright?”

“Yup. I was just thinking.” You all give a few steps forward when the line for the ferris wheel move.

“I know who you were thinking about,” Christopher says, his arm around Monica's shoulders. “He's coming, by the way.” He tilts his head towards something behind you, and you immediately turn on your heels, and the familiar burning on your stomach hits.

You can't help but smile to see him, walking among the sea of people, eyes fixed on you. It's ok to look now, right? You're dating, you're living together. And Billy looks so... Gorgeous. Hot. Awesome. He's wearing his black leather jacket and a dark blue shirt underneath, which is unbuttoned.

“Hey, princess.” His smile makes your legs weak as he pulls you into a kiss.

“Hey, handsome,” you mutter when you pull away, a hand on the exposed part of his chest. “Haven't you ever heard of buttons, Hargrove?”

“Yeah, but I don't think they're necessary.” He winks and you bite your lip.

“I think I agree,” you whisper before finally turning back to your friends. And, of course, they're all staring with wide eyes. Monica is the only one who knows you're dating. “So, guys... Billy and I.” You mutter, blushing lightly and moving again. You're next in line.

“I knew it!” Jason exclaims, high-fiving Monica. “I knew it, from the beginning.”

“I didn't. I mean... Billy is... Or was...” Christopher struggles with the words, gesturing at Billy and you. “Well it doesn't matter, does it? Congratulations.”

“Careful, Chris. Remember what happened to David last time.” Monica warns him, a smirk on her face.

“Next.” The old man calls and you move.

“Couples first,” Monica says, pulling you and Billy ahead of the others. The car only fits two, so you and Billy go alone.

As you move up, you look down, taking in the amazing view the ferris wheel provides. Billy has an arm around your shoulders, and you lay your head on his shoulder.

“You're quiet. What happened? You sounded very excited about the fair.” Billy asks, placing a kiss on your hair.

You don't want to tell him why you're restless, not today. “I was. I am.” You stutter a little, clearing your throat.

“Are you afraid of heights?”

“No.” You breathe out, cursing yourself for worrying him. “I'm happy, I truly am and this is... This is beautiful and being here with you just makes everything better.” Looking up, you pull him into a kiss, taking in his amazing scent, from the cologne you love so much. “I'm alright, trust me,” you reassure him when we break the kiss.

“(Y/N), you were very, very loud earlier. You literally threw water on me. You can't possibly think I wouldn't notice you acting weird.” Billy keeps his index finger on your chin, forcing you to look into his eyes.

You really wish he could let it go because you don't want to ruin the night, but don't want to lie either. “I just saw something in the woods, but I'm sure it's nothing.” You try hard to keep the fear away from your voice, to keep it casual.

“Was it the same thing you saw the other time?” He asks, the expression on his face changing. It seems that you don't need to ask Billy to believe on what you saw. He does. You have no idea why or how, but it looks like he does. “The same thing James said he saw?”

“Yeah... Two of them. Running, keeping up with the car.” Your voice cracks by the end, as the image comes back to your mind. It's almost surreal that you're so scared of what's probably just some kind of animal. “It's stupid. I'm a big city girl, I'm not used to living this close to the woods.”

“It's not stupid.” He assures you, pecking your lips. “We'll check it out tomorrow, ok?”

“We should tell the police. What if it starts attacking people in the daylight?”

“It won't,” Billy states, not a single hint of doubt in his voice.

“What do you mean it won't? Do you know what it is? Is it nocturnal?” The words come out fast. If he knows what it is, why didn't he tell you on the first time? Billy looks away, taking a deep breath. “Billy?”

“I'll need you to trust me in this, (Y/N).” His voice is different, urgent, deep. Of course you trust him, how could you not?

“I do,” you say in a low voice. “You know I do. Is something going on that I don't know about?” As you speak, your time is over and you're back on the ground. Billy takes your hand and start walking away from the ferris wheel.

“I promise I'll tell you everything. But not here, and not today.” You both stop, and Billy cups your face. “For now, let's us just... Enjoy the moment. How does that sound?”

Taking a deep breath, you nod. It was the plan from the beginning, so you might as well stick to it. “Alright.”

“Come, I'll introduce you to my friends.”

Billy guides you through the fair, holding your hand. His friends are on the Northside, where parking is exclusive for the employees. But you don't think they care. You only know Tommy and Carol, the other two guys and the girl you only know from afar. When they recognize Billy, Tommy raises his hand and waves.

“You'll hate them.” Billy warns.

“Let me be the judge of that,” you whisper as you approach the guys.

“What's up, Billy,” Tommy says, smiling. “...And who's that?”

Of cours they're staring at you. Why would you even hope otherwise? You're not only the new girl, but now you're also the one who actually got Billy Hargrove. People won't just look. They'll stare. “This is (Y/N), my girlfriend,” Billy says and you wave at them. “(Y/N), these are Tommy, Carol, Ryan, Buck, and Emily.”

“Hi. It's nice to meet you, guys.” You simply say, involuntary moving closer to Billy when you notice Ryan's eyes lingering on you.

“Girlfriend? Are you kidding me?” Carol asks, giggling. “I knew you two were hanging out but dating? I must admit I didn't see that coming.”

“Why didn't you introduce her to us earlier, Billy?” Ryan mutters, taking a sip from his can. “Is she too... Pure to hang out with us?”

“Actually, yes,”

“And have you started corrupting her already?" Ryan flashes a smile, and it makes you feel uncomfortable. You can see when his eyes move through your body, up and down, his smile only widening. “Why don't you give me your number, sweetie? I can call when Billy boy here is done with you.”

“Don't you–”

“Do you happen to have Billy's number?” You ask, raising your voice and placing a hand on Billy's chest to stop him from moving. Ryan raises an eyebrow and nods, a big interrogation on his face. “Good. Then you already have my number.”

He bursts into a laugh, furrowing his eyebrows. “Nice one. You could just say no, though.”

“It's not a joke.” Smiling, you feel Billy's arms encircling your waist.

“Wait. Are you two living together or something?” Emily gestures at you and then at Billy, and you feel when he nods. “Shit, it's true then. You're pregnant.” She stands up straight, wide eyes.

“I knew it.” Tommy states.

“That again.” Rolling your eyes, you shake your head lightly. “I'm not pregnant. We're just–”

“Living together,” Billy states, his voice making it clear there will be no further explanation.

Everyone, basically at the same time, gasps, giggles, and Ryan spits out his drink. “Holy shit, Billy. Can't believe you're keeping this one. But this whole innocent act she has going on is very alluring, I must admit.”

“Want me to beat him up a little?” Billy whispers in your ear, and you can hear the anger building up. And you didn't like what Ryan said anyway.

“I did say I wouldn't stop you on the next time so be my guest,” you whisper back, shrugging your shoulders. Who are you to intervene if Billy wants to use his friend as a punching bag?

You give a step back when Billy moves, straight towards Ryan who has the decency of raising both his hands in defeat. “C'mon, Billy. You wouldn't hurt me because of one of your cows, would you? She's just–” Ryan is cut short by a hard punch on his stomach, which makes him bend over and forces the air out of his lungs.

“I would just–” Billy pulls him up again by the collar of his shirt, his fist then connecting to his jaw. “–warn you but–” A kick this time, on the ribs. “–you just can't keep your damn mouth shut, can you?” Billy pushes him violently, and Ryan stumbles down, blood all over his nose and mouth. “I believe my point is made.” He turns to look at the others and you do the same, just now noticing your eyes were fixed on the fight. If you can even call this a fight.

“No screwing with your girl,” Tommy states, exchanging a wide-eyed glance with Carol. “Got it.”

“Let's go, (Y/N).” Billy fixes his jacket and takes your hand. “Want some cotton candy?”

He is acting as if he didn't just leave a bleeding Ryan lying on the ground. “Yeah,” you mumble, raising an eyebrow at his smirk. Billy starts walking, not bothering to wave goodbye at his friends. “Just because I didn't like them it doesn't mean you can't hang out with them. I want to make this very clear.” You have to say it. In a relationship, a person shouldn't try to control who the other hangs out with.

“You're an angel, you know that? The other girls had me for one night and already wanted to control what I–” He stops talking suddenly, shaking his head slightly.

“What? You can say it, I made peace with whatever you did before.” As you speak, you start pulling him on a different direction. This parking lot is outside of the fair, so you're near the back of the attractions. A place gets your attention. It's a bit dark, but there's this blue and purple light, enough to illuminate it just a little bit.

“I know, but I shouldn't compare you to–. Where are you going?”

Not bothering to answer, you just start pulling him harder. “There.”

“I might like where this is going.”

“Jerk,” you mumble, smiling to find that whatever attraction this is, the back is shaped like an L, which gives you a perfect corner to hide. So you move to the very back of it. “Thank you again,” you say, turning around and walking backwards until your back hits the metal wall.

“For what?”

“For defending my honor. It's the second time and now I can thank you better than I did on the first time.” Of course, he already has that smirk on his face. The one you used to hate, that you used to be scared of because it made you feel... Weird. “I–”

The words get caught in your throat when Billy picks you up suddenly, both his hands grabbing your legs and placing them around his waist. You immediately wrap your arms around his neck to steady yourself, giggling. “For the height issue.”

“The height is not an issue,” you tell him, the blue and purple lights illuminating his face enough for you to take in his features. They're already memorized, burned in your brain, but you still like to look. “It's good to be on the same level though.”

“Mhm.” He mumbles and you close your eyes when you feel his lips brushing on yours.

You're used to the burning sensation, the sweet butterflies on your stomach as the anticipation kicks in.

On the moment his lips connect with yours, the amazing, breathtaking sensation is clouded by a groan. A... Growl. Billy pulls away immediately, letting you down. “What was that?” you ask, suddenly aware of the woods across the parking lot.

“Stay here, I–” Another snarl, low and guttural, and then you see it.

The thing comes from behind a large truck, some feet away. You're frozen at the sight. Now you can see it, clearly. And it's not an animal.

It has no fur, just blue, wet skin... And no face. You were right. James was right...

“(Y/N),” Billy calls, but you don't move. “(Y/N), c'mon.”

The thing moves slowly, and you have no idea how, but it knows you're here. It's looking straight at you and Billy, despite having no eyes. You're trying to make your body move, to send any signals to your legs, but it's useless.

Its face starts moving, all of it. You feel Billy grabbing your hand, a distant, numb feeling. Then, the animal's head opens up, and an unnatural growl emerges from its throat at the same moment you're pulled. You don't know how but your legs start working, and you're suddenly running, as fast as you can, back inside the fair. But you feel hunted, pursued. You're among the people again, but Billy keeps running, you don't know where. You can't think. Maybe you're going crazy, but you're pretty sure Billy saw it too. He wouldn't be running if he didn't, right?

“(Y/N),” Billy cups your face, and only then you notice you stopped. The sea of people move around you, but you can't really see it. “Listen. I need you to help me find Maxine. Or any of her friends. Ok?”

You simply nod, taking a deep breath and trying to get yourself back together. “Maxine,” you repeat, clenching your fists. “Or the boys. Alright. But n-no separating to look.” You burst out the last part, holding the collar of his jacket.

“No, we'll stay together. I just need you to–”

“Billy!” A low yell almost lost among the noises reaches you. You both turn your heads at the same time to find Max running, pushing people out of her way. She's with the boys, and someone older. “We gotta go. Now.” She says once she's close.

“We–”

“The Demodogs are back.” Dustin cuts Billy off, his voice getting all funny again. But you don't laugh this time. You're too scared to laugh.

“(Y/N)? Are you ok?” Max asks, and you don't know what to say.

You're feeling sick. There are too many people here, and that thing is out there... What if it starts attacking? There are kids here, toddlers... You feel your body failing, and a strong arm encircles your waist.

“My place. Everyone. Now.” Billy commands as you struggle to stand up, hiding your face on his chest.

Is there any possibility you're having a nightmare?

Because these... These things don't just happen. It doesn't exist, not in real life. It belongs only to sci-fi or horror movies.

Billy has a hand on your knee as you ride shotgun in his car, not listening to whatever Max, Lucas, and Dustin are talking about on the backseat. You're waiting to wake up, you think. Trying to shake the image of that thing's head opening up like it's been sliced apart. You feel how your hands are shaking when you touch your face, trying hard no cry out of desperation.

“Hey,” Billy says in a low voice. “Remember when I told you to trust me?”

Nodding, you dry off the stubborn tears before looking at him. “We'll fix this. I promise you.”

“How? How do we–”

“We'll tell you everything,” Lucas says, cutting in. “I mean, she saw it. She has to know, right?”

“Right. But your brain may explode, so be prepared.” Max touches your shoulder, but you can't understand why they seem so... Calm about this. They're worried, but not deadly, ultimately scared. How in the hell is that possible that you're the only one here on the verge of losing your damn mind?

“Let's get inside,” Billy says when we stop by his place. “And wait for the others.”

You can barely feel your body as you walk to the house. Billy remains by your side on the couch as the boys stay in the kitchen. The low chattering is unlistenable.

“How are you feeling, princess?”

“I don't know how to answer that. I just say a very weird dog cracking its head open.” Running a hand through your hair, you close your eyes shut. “It's about that lab, isn't it? This whole thing smells like some screwed up experiment that went wrong.”

“The truth is actually a lot worse than that.” As he speaks, the door opens and you jump back to your feet, breathing out relieved when you see it's just the rest of the guys. And three more people, about your age.

Everyone gathers around in the living room and you go back to your place beside Billy. It's creepy the way they all keep staring at you, exchanging glances.

“(Y/N), these are Steve, Nancy, and Jonathan. They're part of our party when it comes to... This.” Max starts, and the three of them nod and give you a little wave. “There are also Robin, Hopper, the chief of police and Joy, Will's mom, but they won't get here in time so... Let's just do this.”

Maxine takes the deepest breath, but when you think she'll start speaking, she doesn't.

“I swear to God I'll lose my freaking mind if one of you don't start explaining to me what the hell is going on here because I just saw some–some sick, zombie, dead dog with no face and the head just opened up like one of those carnivorous plants and I'm sure something is very, very wrong and–”

“Alright, I'll do it.” Eleven speaks up, stepping forward and gesturing for Billy to stand up. She takes his place, looking down at her hands before looking at you. “Ready for the strangest story you'll ever hear?”

×

@chloe-skywalker @dpaccione @dreamin-of-dacre @funeral-7 @uncookspaget @youhavemyfantasticbeasts @halloweenbitch2764 @redlovett @multific @shinydixon @nikkixostan @clockworkballerina

[morning-glory215]

just like moths

Tommy doesn’t wear his old jacket much anymore. Even though it brought a sense of warmth, of unity, he didn’t wear it much. When they had a formal inauguration of Tubbo, a few days after the bombing, he wore it. The old thing is falling apart at the seams, just barely presentable. And yet the memories it holds are what make it so hard to throw away. Of the times when the sun was golden and there were walls to protect.

(not those walls, half-finished with a threat)

And it was also the fact that he didn’t have another jacket to hold all of his medals.

Ones shaped like the discs he still had; ones with the spread wings of a Phoenix, to represent when L’Manburg had first been bombed and they had risen above it; a flag of L’Manburg; a sword and bow to represent his tenacity; a star, to represent when they had first taken back L’Manburg from Schlatt.

When he had to wear the jacket, he felt like he was holding the hopes of a past him. Of the people he had fought for (who stare at him now, as he walks along with his little posse to face another humiliation) and the ideals he often died for.

When death was cheap, you had to make some meaning out of it.

He tries desperately not to focus on his present reality. That Tubbo was giving into Dream to placate him. So that the walls would go away. So that Dream would go away.

None of this would go away by bowing.

(and hadn’t they said they wouldn’t bow to Tommy?)

(then again, Dream wasn’t the Vice President)

Yet, here they were. Tommy stands at the forefront of their new podium, as Tubbo makes some speech to the stragglers. Dream stands so casually, leaning against a stall. This was his punishment, and Dream’s amusement.

Tommy wanted to slap that mask away and dig his fingers into -

Fundy grins next to him, his pawed hand already taking away the first of his many medals. He takes away his tenacity, then the one representing a renewed L’Manburg - the Phoenix. Quackity takes away his flag. 

Then, finally, Tubbo steps forward. Tommy can see the biting bitterness in his eyes (or is he projecting?), the set of his jaw as he leans forward. First, he takes away the discs (that beloved, physical memory of their friendship) and deposits it in his pocket.

Lastly, the star. All of this was meant to strip Tommy of any pride and connection to his country.

In all matters but physical, he had no more connections.

No more honors. No more pride.

And as Tubbo tucks his star away, Tommy feels the light of their friendship dim. Tommy can remember drawing up the designs for all of those medals with Tubbo. Tubbo, who had smiled at him as he gave him back his medals as his president.

It was pretty fitting that his president would take them away, huh?

The end of the whole ceremony was like a balloon deflating. Tubbo left first, always in a hurry. Quackity left second, always something for him to do.

Fundy, however, lingers for a second.

And Tommy knows all the things left unsaid between them. They were both hurt by Wilbur (but the difference is, Tommy wishes still that Wilbur was around so that Tommy could try to fix him and Fundy wishes he was still around so that Wilbur could fix their relationship) and their moments together are always hard.

But Tommy knows, in this moment, that Fundy wants to gloat. He is already by the way he looks at him.

Fundy leaves third, with Tommy’s strength and hope in his pocket.

It’s Tommy who leaves last from L’Manburg, back to his actual home. The night air is heavy, the crickets singing and the moths floating around the lamps he had put up. His head is heavy, too - thoughts like moths that bat against the inside of his skull. Though there’s no formal declaration, Tommy knows.

He isn’t welcome back. Without his medals, which even the most basic citizen has, he has no honor. No face to show.

So he packs a bag, tears threatening to fall. 

And yet, he has nowhere to go. His last living brother that isn’t Tubbo is the worst choice. And he doesn’t know if he can trust Philza (how sad that was, he couldn’t even trust his own father). The places he can turn to are slim to none. 

He sits on the edge of the path outside of his home, feeling the rough edges of the wood dig into his pants and skin. He sits, and watches the moths dance without a care. Why can’t he be like them? They don’t need a home, nor friends who will eventually turn on him to placate a beast that will never stop being hungry.

Tommy notices the sound of footsteps, heavy from armor, approaching him. He doesn’t care much who it is (more to come and point and laugh at the fallen boy hero?), because he’ll be gone soon.

Yet, surprise is an understatement at who sits next to him - glittering gold armor, green and fluffy fur and a calming aura around him - so Tommy turns to look.

“What’re you doing here?” He asks, unable to keep the sulk from his voice. 

Even though Sam has always been kind. Always been somebody Tommy could trust wouldn’t make fun of him, or somebody who would indulge his chaotic behaviors. He was unerring, where Phil was inconsistent. He was level-headed, where Wilbur was so easy to take nosedives. He was willing to listen and change, whereas Techno wanted one thing above all.

Even though all of those were facts, something in Tommy flinches away from the kindly hand on his shoulder.

“Hey, I’m just here as a friend.” Sam says softly, and Tommy can’t help but lean into him. “What happened?”

Tommy feels an anger inside of him boil up and he can’t stop the bitter words.

“Tubbo is listening to Dream! Not me! We fought a war together against him!” Tommy feels the tears finally slipping away. “What the fuck is that about?!”

Sam hums and hugs Tommy closer. He doesn’t say anything, doesn’t insert his own opinions and lets Tommy rant. Sometimes, when it’s clear Tommy wants him to say something, he does. It’s almost refreshing to have someone listen to him, when it always feels like he’s walking on eggshells with others.

“And - and, now I have nowhere else to go.” Tommy grips at his packed bag, then at his home. 

He’s so fucking hopeless

But Sam somehow sees something in him.

“I have room.” He says it so simply, and Tommy blinks. “We can work on a room for you, and you know how secluded I am.”

Somewhere secluded. 

Somebody who holds no scorn for his mere name.

Tommy almost wants to say no. He doesn’t want to leave behind the lamps with their moths, the land he had fought for, the people he still loves - even when they can’t spare him the same luxury. Why did he fight so hard, when punishment for things others did was his fate?

Why not be a little selfish?

“Yeah.” Tommy wipes his face furiously against his arms (scarred with his warring and loving too much) and nods. “Yeah. I’ll come with you.”

Sam smiles and Tommy feels like, just for a second, he can put his worries to the side.

And as they both stand, Tommy realizes something.

The jacket.

“Hey, before we go, can I go and put my jacket away?”

And of course Sam nods. Tommy feels a sense of relief as he walks past the moths that hit the lamps. As he puts the jacket on his old bed, he folds it neatly and stares at it. It had been a piece of who he was. A foolish, but loving, boy - who fought and roared and loved with his very being.

People over places, he had told himself.

Tommy leaves without a second glance, follows Sam like a moth to a lamp.

Perhaps, Tommy thinks, he’s been around too many lamps - that will, eventually, burn his wings away and leave him a husk. But he has faith that does not seem misplaced anymore, with Sam. He will find warmth and sanctuary with him.

Tommy doesn’t need his old jacket anymore to make him feel any kind of warmth of a fire long gone.

[siriuslyshewrote]

5AM - Finn Shelby x Reader

Requested by @violetsdicaprio “Okay so, can I request a Finn Shelby fic where he uses the prompt “you’re safe, you’re safe, you’re safe.” Maybe Season 4 when Changretta is there and he has ordered an attack on the reader maybe because she found out something, like she overheard something in a bar?” Hope you enjoy it love xx

We run into a dark room, And we spasm to the sounds

You shouldn’t even have been at that bar in the first place, You should have been at a Shelby family meeting (something which you had been introduced to a few months ago, when Finn and yourself had gotten engaged,), but for the first time, you blew it off. That was what bugged you afterwards, and if you could communicate with your past self, you would scream not to agree to a night out with your sister and her husband. But you did. You were excited, not having seen your sister since she found out she was pregnant several weeks ago, due to clashed schedules, and a hell of a lot of work commitments - because working at the Shelby Company wasn’t your typical nine to five job -  you had yet to congratulate her in person. Finn was supposed to be accompanying you, but he had said he couldn’t at the last minute, saying Polly had insisted he was at the meeting (and wasn’t best pleased that you weren’t going to be there, either).

And so, that was how you had found yourself in your current situation, irritated at Finn after yet another argument,  tired from work, with the swollen ankles that came from the precariously high heels you insisted on wearing. You were nursing your second glass of a rather strong whiskey, standing and waiting for your sister, who was never on time, as scatterbrained as she was. You half had zoned out looking around at the people in the bar, laughing and dancing to jazz music. You looked at a young couple, smiling at each other, positively lost in each other’s eyes, and wondered just when Finn and you had lost that childhood sweetheart innocence.

You were half in another world, until you heard the utterance of ‘Shelby’ behind you, in a thick accent that sounded rather suspiciously Italian. 

Of a copy of Morrissey , Or the blues of the Deep South

Fuck, fuck, fuck.

You barely even moved whilst you tried to listen to what the men were saying. They probably didn’t expect for anyone associated with the Shelby’s to be here, in this bar several miles away from Watery Lane, a place that was nowhere near where the Peaky boys patrolled, with their guns that gleamed in the light of the streetlamps, that inspired fear in others, but a feeling of safety in you. They were speaking English, surely a way for them to fit in more with the scenery around you, to not arise any suspicion, but you’d know that accent anywhere. It had been drilled into you, practically, and as one of the men said Luca in a low tone, you knew it was the Changretta’s sat behind you. You should have ran then, sprinted away, never looked back. But you stayed, swirling your drink in your glass, watching the intoxicating amber liquid go round and round and round.

And the drugs will only hide it

“You are being stupid, Luca.” A man’s voice spoke harshly.

That fucking name Luca. The name of the man who had so ruthlessly and callously ordered his men to kill your future brother-in-law only weeks ago. He had had no thought about Esme, a woman who you loved like a sister, or John’s seven children, or his youngest brother who was slowly being forced to take John himself’s role, a role that distorted Finn so quickly it was like you had woke up one morning next to a completely different man. No, Luca Changretta hadn’t thought of any of this, and you would be happy to see him put to a stop.

The feeling never really goes “Attacking them in their own home? It is suicide, my boy.” The words he spoke were so filled with meaning that you half froze in your chair. You were sure that their was only one family that they could be talking about.

“I guess we will see tonight, if you are correct. But it was not so difficult to kill the last one, now was it?” A gloating voice, one that must have been Luca spoke, and it was all you could do to not turn around in your seat and punch him for his words. 

Your hand shook slightly, as you placed the glass down on the counter again, picking up your bag from where it had been, and slipping from your seat, a poor attempt to look casual, pushing through the doors into the cold early January air, your breath fogging in front of you, as your heart beat so violently and loudly that you heard it in your ears.

You had to warn them. At any moment Luca’s men could be at their door. You squeezed your eyes closed for a moment, trying not to picture it, not to think of Finn, because if you thought of Finn you would panic, and you couldn’t, not right now. You pulled off your high heels, feet hitting the frosted cobblestones, as you made to begin to run. You barely made it a few meters, before you heard the click behind you, the calm, cool voice.

And we won’t find love, at the bottom of a glassy hole. 

“Y/N Shelby! A pleasure to finally meet you.”

You turned, raising your hands slightly, to see Luca, standing alone, smoking a cigarette, his eyes calculating and humourous, locked with your own. He looked so casual, that to anyone else, it would look as if you two were just having a conversation, albeit one at gunpoint, the gun you could see now, aimed directly at your abdomen. If he shot it, it would guarantee a rather slow, horrifically painful, death for you.

“Y/N L/N, actually.” You snapped, your mind whirring, telling you to keep him talking, until you could figure out some fucking way to get out of this. You could feel the cool metal of your own gun, strapped to your thigh, but there was no way you could grab it without him realising.

And you don't know what you've got until it's gone

“Ah yes, you haven’t quite sealed the deal yet, have you?” He exhaled the smoke from his cigarette, as he walked closer to you, until he was only half a metre away, and you could smell the smoke. “When is the wedding?”

“We’re not going to have one of you keep killing off my guest list.” You spoke sardonically, trying not to seem as deathly afraid as you were. To Tommy, or Arthur, or even Finn, this wouldn’t be a big deal, you thought. They’d have plans for this sort of thing, but this was your first time being held at gun point. You wondered if it was the sort of thing you got a cake for at Shelby Limited, like normal companies did for an achievement.

He laughed, though his eyes didn’t express any emotion.

“You’re a funny girl, Miss L/N. It’s a shame, really, that I have to do this.” He gestured towards the gun. “But, needs must. You overheard my conversation, didn’t you?”

He stepped even closer, and you were almost sure you could hit him with the element of surprise, hit his gun from his hands. But your shaking hands betrayed that thought. What if it didn’t work? What then?

And you don't know who to love until you're lost

“You really do have to be fucking stupid if you don’t think that Tommy won’t have preempted any of the shit you plan to pull.” You spat, lowering your hands a tiny fraction. He didn’t notice.

“He seems rather distracted lately, doesn’t he? And anyone in Birmingham can tell you about the... ah, what should we call them? Cracks that are beginning to show in the Shelby family.”

“Perhaps he is distracted because your family murdered his fucking wife, Changretta.” Your hands were now barely raised, but he was distracted, each of your staring into the others eyes - fear and anger versus power and arrogance.

“As he killed my father.”

“This is nothing to do with me. Just let me go, okay?”

“You have already ruined my plans. Someone will have already found your boyfriend, I assume, and he and the rest of the Shelby’s will be on their way here.”

“So go. You know you can’t win against them. Not tonight.” Your heart was thrumming in your ears so loudly everything felt almost quiet in comparison.

And you don't know how to feel until the moment's passed

“But I can take something from them. Your time is up, Miss Shelby.”

“Y/N?” You heard a yell, an almost terrified one, but it was at least a street away. Finn would never get here in time.

Changretta turned his head towards the noise, and you took that moment, grabbing the gun in his hands, trying to wrestle it out of them, desperately. There was a bang and then there was silence, and the gun slipped from between your fingers, clattered to the floor. Your eyes regarded Changretta with shock, as your knees began to buckle, and you landed onto the cold hard cobbles, hands trying to find what was wrong.

“I’m sorry I had to do this.” For a second, you almost thought he sounded genuinely sad. “But your family took something from me. Now, I must take everything from them.”

“Y/N!” The voice was louder now, and you turned, to see a group of men at the top of the street - Finn amongst them. They came too late.

I wish you'd live like you're made of glass

You turned back to Changretta , but he had already gone, disappeared into the shadows.

It only felt like seconds before Finn was in front of you, and you had raised a shaky hand to point the direction where Luca Changretta had gone, directing the rest of the Blinders with him. Soon, the way it had always been, it was just the two of you. Finn and Y/N.

His eyes scanned you for injuries, before they landed on your abdomen, the dim streetlights enough to see the scarlet liquid on your dress, spreading across the cobblestones. It was too much, for such a small person, you thought. You weren’t shocked, as you saw it, you knew as soon as the gun went off you were hit, and now you could feel the metal bullet, lodged somewhere inside you, feel the pain that extended to your fingers and toes.

“No.” He said quietly, his eyes locking with yours. “No.”

“Finn-“ Your hands reaches out to cup his face, the blood on them leaving marks on his cheeks, but you didn’t care. You wanted to feel his warmth. You were so cold. So fucking cold.

“I need an ambulance.” He roared, looking towards the pub where you had been only ten minutes before, where several people were looking out at the scene. “Right fucking now!”

They weren’t ones to ignore a Shelby, and so they dissapearwd from the window. You knew it would do no good. You knew you-

And we've got work in the morning, But it's nearly 5 a.m.

“I’m going to die Finn.” Your eyes were filled with tears, as were his, as he tried to press your wound, ripping off his jacket, holding it against your abdomen.

“No you’re not. You’re okay, you’re okay, you’re okay.” He repeated like a mantra, his voice shaky and cracking at every word.

Finn knew death. He had seen what felt like a hundred people die, had been the cause of several, and he knew from the look in your eyes, the paleness of your skin, that this was the end. Somewhere, deep down, he knew you were going to die, right there, on this rainy street, cold, and scared. He knew he could do nothing about it.

“It’s okay, Finny.” You said gently, hands still caressing his face. “You’re here. That’s all I need.”

“Don’t die on me now, yeah? Please.” That word, filled with so much emotion, as he almost begged you.

“I’m sorry. I’m sorry we argued ... tonight. I just ...” You trailed off, your mind not really working, not letting you find the words. God, it hurt so fucking much. In the distance, you thought you heard the ambulance.

“It’s fine. It’s fine.”

You nodded, leaning up against the wall behind you, feeling the cold start to set into your bones. The world felt almost fuzzy. You looked up, into the night sky. The pollution in Birmingham never allowed for stars in the sky, but you wished you could see them, right now.

You felt your eyes become heavier, like someone was weighing them down with pennies.

Is this really what we envisioned?

“Love you.” You mumbled, looking back to Finn. He was crying freely now, and you wanted to wipe away the tears, but it felt like you had forgotten how to move.

“Come on, the ambulance is almost here. Just a few more minutes.”

You shook your head, a tiny movement. You smiled at the boy, the boy who had made the last five years of your life bearable, who was your first, and last, love. You thought about the house you were planning on buying together, and the crib that you one day were going to have, and the honey suckle in the garden.

And you closed your eyes.

We won't be 21 again

[ijustwant2write]

Difference Doesn’t Matter-Finn Shelby x Reader

(GIF credit to @peakystitches)

Masterlist

Summary: (requested by @ibetrippinsometimes) ‘Hey! Could you maybe write a fic for Finn where the reader is asian/brown and works for the Shelby company and they're all cute and stuff and everyone knows they like each other just not them?...’

Characters: Finn Shelby x Reader

Meanings: (Y/N)=Your name

(Y/L/N)=Your last name

Warnings: Racism, discrimination, swearing, but lots of fluff

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

"Be careful, have you got everything? Did you pick up the lunch I made you?" Mum called out as I opened the door.

"Yes mum, thank you. I'll be back by seven." I replied, smiling and shaking my head. No matter how old I was, she would always treat me like her little girl.

I buttoned up my coat as I made my way to work, not realizing how chilly the weather was. It was still early, and I was thinking about how the sun was only just coming up, but Small Heath tended to always be covered by thick clouds. Factory workers walked in a big crowd, some people setting up their stalls and office workers scurrying to their desks. This was the image I saw every morning, yet someone new always caught my eye.

And I caught theirs.

It was easy to pick me out from a crowd around here. Having a different skin colour to others brought on a lot more problems than standing out. Of course there was backlash, derogatory terms, threats, but it all suddenly stopped when I started working for the Shelbys.

It had been a long shot, but I applied for a secretary position, having helped my father within his office before. My skin colour was not going to define what I could and couldn’t do, so when I was called in for an interview, I walked in with my head held high, confidence radiating off me. The betting shop was filled with men, all their heads turning to me as I sauntered through, not caring about what they were thinking. I got the job straight away, officially working for the Shelbys, meaning I was under the protection of the Peaky Blinders. 

Surprisingly my parents had been accepting of this. As people who were cast aside from everyone else, it was a good feeling to be accepted into their own, small community, especially since they defended us from others. At first I had been nervous, not only because I would be surrounded by gawking men all day, but because I had feelings that I would be used for the small, worthless jobs; that never came, and I was a well looked after employee. 

“Morning Mr Shelby.” I greeted Tommy as I set my handbag on my desk.

“Good morning (Y/N). You’re in early today.” he said, already lighting a cigarette.

“I have some papers to catch up on, Finn forgot to give them to me yesterday.”

He sighed.“That boy. Still doesn’t treat you like his secretary.”

“What do you mean?”

“He’s too easy on you. Not that I’m calling you lazy. Though we all know why.”

I went to ask him what he meant again, but he walked away before I could. Shrugging it off, I focused on the papers in front of me, hoping to get them finished before opening the shop. Time seemed to fly by as more and more workers entered, the men preparing themselves for another busy day. Finn’s office door was open, and I had left it that way to not close myself off from everyone. Although the Shelby’s were kind to me, not all of their workers were. At the office things may have been peaceful but outside was a different story; they may have not been as bad or threatening as the strangers roaming the streets, but they segregated me from everything. They couldn’t do anything to me, for fear of losing their job, but being ignored was just as upsetting. 

Glancing at the clock, I smiled to myself realising that Finn was about to arrive. He always came in at the same time. Standing up, I walked out of the office to the kitchen, checking on his tea; again, he always had a tea in the morning. Stirring it one last time, I briskly went back to his office, setting the mug on his desk on he entered.

“Morning (Y/N).” he grinned.

“Good morning. How are you today?” I asked, standing in front of his desk as he sat down.

He groaned.“It’s a big race today, we are going to be so busy.”

“That’s a good thing! It means more money.”

“I think the boys have had an effect on you.”

“No, it’s just...well I’ve been looking at this dress, it’s a beautiful red one, great for a night of dancing. I’ve got the shoes and bag to match, and I’ve almost got the money for it. If things go well today, I’ll be getting that dress in no time.”

“I would have bought it for you.” Finn mumbled.

“Why? That’s lovely of you but you shouldn’t be spending you money on a secretary.”

“You’re my friend, not just my secretary.”

“Thank you Finn, that’s very sweet of you.”

Soon after, we started work. Finn worked close with his brothers, mostly on the shop floor, whereas I worked on the literature side of the company, writing and sending letters, reading through contracts, and much more. I was always busy, though I loved this job, and the people in it. The day always went quickly, and sometimes that was nice, other days I wished I could stay safe in the shop for longer.

“(Y/N),” Isaiah said as he leaned against the office door frame,“I got a delivery for you.”

“For me? Mum didn’t make me another lunch did she?” 

“Nah, this is a bit different.” 

He had a smug smile on his face, like he knew something I didn’t. Isaiah set a flat box in front of me. It was a turquoise colour, with a darker blue ribbon tied around it. Slowly undoing the ribbon, I was hesitant to see what it was. Who would send this to me? As I removed the lid, a loud gasp left my lips, lifting up the red dress I had told Finn about. It was even more beautiful holding it, and I couldn’t believe that it was right there in front of me.

“It’s from Finn.” Isaiah informed me.

“Oh, it’s gorgeous. I can’t believe he did this.”

“He’d probably buy you ten dresses to see you smile.”

“Isaiah, stop.” I blushed.

“Has she got it yet?” Polly suddenly appeared.

Isaiah nodded, crossing his arms over his chest.“Yep, she’s in awe.”

“Ah, I raised that boy right. Too bad his brothers weren’t the same.”

“I only mentioned it this morning. Why would he buy me this?”

Polly and Isaiah shared a look, chuckling to themselves as they left. Dismissing their strange behaviour, I gazed over the dress again. Why had he done this for me? Of course he was my friend, but I don’t think someone would fork out this much money for a dress! That’s why I had been saving up for so long, it wasn’t cheap. My heart swelled at the kind gesture, excited to wear it as soon as possible. Perhaps even Finn could take me dancing in it...

Finn didn't return for another hour, and I hoped that the others weren't teasing him about my gift. I knew that his brothers were rough and tough, probably never even thinking of buying such a present for a friend. Done with my work for the day, I tydied up the office, gathering my things before coming face to face with Finn.

"Finn! Thank you for the present, it was so lovely of you." I beamed, noticing his cheeks turning slightly pink.

"Y-you're welcome." he stuttered."I hope it fits."

"It looks like it will. You really shouldn't have."

"Take it as a thank you, for your hard work. You've had more of an idea on how to do this job than I have, and I grew up in the business!"

I giggled."You doubt yourself too much."

"You coming down the Garrison?"

"Course I am. Just got to have dinner with mum, you know what she's like."

"Gonna wear the dress?"

"No, absolutely not!"

He was surprised by my outburst."W-why not?"

"I'm not going to risk some drunk idiot spilling his beer down my dress. Plus it's not the right dress for a pub, everyone will stare, well, more than they do anyway."

"That's disappointing."

"What is?"

"Nothing. I'll come get you, eight o'clock yeah?"

I nodded, saying goodbye when I felt like we were being watched. Both turning our heads, we saw Polly and Finn's brothers staring at us, all but Tommy wearing smirks on their face. There was awkwardness in the air, and I quickly bid goodbye to them too, straight out the door as I did so.

Mum had questioned the dress, not because of how it looked or how expensive it was but how I got it. I hid nothing from her, explaining that Finn had kindly bought it. She had a huge smile on her face, going on about how much she liked Finn because of how sweet and gentle he could be. As most mothers do, she brought up the question of would I ever date him, though she didn't need me to speak to know the answer; a lot of teasing ensued after that. Luckily it was just mum and I dining together, because I thought that he would have something different to say.

Eight o'clock rolled around, and I had freshened myself up after changing out of my work clothes. Mum answered the door before I could, and I groaned, hearing the things she was saying to him.

"Finn, how good to see you! Don't you look handsome? It was nice of you to buy (Y/N) that dress, I tried convincing her to wear it but she wouldn't, thinks she'll stand out too much. Have you gotten taller?"

"Alright mum, I'll see you later. Love you." I kissed her on the cheek, swiftly moving around her to get out of the door.

"Be careful you too! Bring her home Finn!" mum shouted after.

I tried tugging Finn along but he called back over his shoulder,"Of course Mrs (Y/L/N), it was good seeing you!"

He laughed at my embarrassed state, but I soon let up. Mum meant well, she just liked the boy. We briefly talked as we walked to the Garrison, casually looping our arms together. I really considered Finn a close friend, especially after he was so open with me when I first started working, he didn't even seem phased by the colour of my skin. He always defended me, always made sure I was safe; I was lucky to have him.

As usual, the Garrison was full of people, loud chatter and demands for drinks filling the room. Finn held onto my hand tightly as we pushed through people (people too drunk to realise who he was, most did move) to the bar. Harry greeted us, serving us drinks on the house, a great perk of being friends with a Shelby.

"I really wish you had worn that dress." Finn slurred. We had been sat in their private room with the rest of the family and Isaiah, with way too many drinks in our system.

"It wasn't the right occasion." I whined, leaning into him.

"Why not? Why couldn't you have worn it for me?"

"Ew, you sound like a desperate boyfriend."

"I'm not either of those things!"

"I know! Look, it's for fancier places."

"This is a fancy place!"

"Are you having a laugh? There's no music here, it's full of drunk, slimy men and prostitutes. I mean like a dance hall or a club."

He raised his finger, acting smart."A dance hall or club can have those same people in them."

"Yeah, but at least they dress nice."

"What the fuck are you two on about?" Arthur asked.

Finn and I talked at the same time, somehow turning this conversation into a small bicker, shouting over the top of one another. The whole family was listening now, wondering what on earth the two drunkards were rambling about. Surely no one could understand us, yet we continued to argue.

"Right, you two have had enough to drink." Polly decided, shushing us as we whined like children."Finn, are you still able to walk (Y/N) home?"

His head lulled forward and backwards slowly, attempting to nod. Polly rolled her eyes.

"Isaiah, make sure (Y/N) gets home safely."

I had a slight headache as I walked into the betting shop the next day. Once again it was quiet, thankfully, and I slowly made Finn and myself a cup of tea. Why had I drank so much? Who was I kidding, Finn and I were drinking partners, it was a disaster when we were together.

"Ah, here she is." John loudly said.

I winced."Morning John".

"Oh, you and Finn are not going to have a good day today, are you?" he grabbed a biscuit, chomping down on it.

"I'll be fine once I've had some tea...hopefully."

"He was very upset that you didn't wear the dress."

"I think that was the alcohol talking."

"Should have seen him buying that dress. He was bright red like a tomato when he came out of the shop. Fucking priceless."

I slumped over my desk, taking a few deep breaths. Thank god yesterday was the busy day, I couldn't deal with shouting men today. My body was shutting down on me, thinking that I should have some more rest when Finn walked in, his steps slow and staggered. We quietly acknowledged each other, him also falling into his chair.

"Your head hurting too?" Finn mumbled.

I could only nod in response.

"We always do this."

"It's called being young and carefree."

"I don't like the side effects."

I smiled."We'll be right as rain by tonight. Then we can do it all again, because it's Friday night, which means we have to go out."

"Actually, I was thinking of something different tonight."

"Like what?"

He hesitated, a scared look crossing his face."Um, well like I said last night, I really want to see you in that dress. So we could go dancing tonight instead of the Garrison?"

I perked up at that, grinning at the thought."Really? You would go dancing with me?"

"Course I would. I'm not very good though. Isaiah said he wanted to come too, bring his date along."

"So...it's a double date?"

He was getting flustered, tripping over his own words."O-only if you want it...you know, if you don't that's fine, but-"

"Finn, I'd love to. Don't worry, I'll teach you the basic steps."

"I think that will be difficult."

"No it won't, cause I'll be leading."

"I thought the man leads?"

"Hm, not in this case."

"Yeah Finn, I think (Y/N) Should take charge on this one." John suddenly said from outside the door, chuckles coming after from multiple men.

"Oh god, they've been listening." I put my head in my hands.

"Oi, fuck off!" Finn shouted, regretting it straight after.

"Don't have a go at us just cause you only know grew the balls to ask (Y/N) out. Oh, good luck girl, I think you'll be taking the lead in everything, not just dancing!"

We embarrassingly laughed, though no akwardness came. Everything was how it was, just normal, though it felt a lot more in place, like when you place the last jigsaw piece down in the puzzle; we fit together, that's how it was supposed to be.

[niksixx]

My Type

Requested: Anonymously! (My brain really went crazy with this and strayed a bit from the original request but I hope you all like it either way!)

Pairing: The Dirt! Nikki Sixx x Plus Size Reader

Description: Can I request uhhh about a plus size reader and Nikki?? I was thinking like she’d be at a party feeling herself and not caring about what people think of her and catches Nikki’s eye? 

Warning: Your typical mean girl trying to make Reader feel uncomfortable, but Reader is a fucking badass woman😛

Y/B/F: Your best friend

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

Taking one last glimpse in the mirror on your wall, a confident smile fell over your face. Your best friend had convinced you to join her at a club and you hadn’t had a day off from work in weeks it seemed, so you jumped at the opportunity to let loose. It was also your birthday and she refused to let you stay in.

The dress you had chosen hugged every one of your curves perfectly; It fit like a glove. Some days you’d be frustrated with your body, vowing to work yourself hard at the gym, but other days like today, you didn’t have a care in the world. You were beautiful, sexy and you knew you looked hot, so whatever self-doubting thoughts popped into your head, you pushed them aside. Sure, you had some insecurities as did everyone else, but they wouldn’t ruin your night. You wouldn’t allow it.

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

“Y/N, I won’t let you fall, I promise!” Y/B/F grabbed your hand and helped you out of the car, steadying you on the sidewalk.

“I don’t understand. Why am I wearing a blindfold to a club?” It didn’t make any sense to you. You had been to most bars and clubs in California, so you were confused as to why your friends wanted to surprise you.

“Can I tell you a secret?” Y/B/F giggled, slinking an arm through yours. “We’re not going to a club. Take off your blindfold.”

As you removed the blindfold you were met with many familiar but some unfamiliar faces all screaming the same words. “Surprise! Happy birthday, Y/N!”

Dumbfounded, you looked at Y/B/F. “What is this? Where are we?”

She led you into the beach house, both of you smiling as guests threw glitter in the air. “Duh, it’s a surprise party for you! You remember my old friend Vince from high school, right? He’s the lead singer of Mötley Crüe. This is his house!”

“I heard my name,” Just then a man with shaggy blonde hair and bright white leather pants wrapped you and Y/B/F in a hug. “I don’t think we’ve ever met before, but happy birthday Y/N. There’s cold beer in the coolers out back by the pool and all the liquor you can imagine behind the bar. Let’s have some fucking fun.”

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

Tommy had just given you and Y/B/F your fifth shot of the night, and to say you were feeling good would be a gross understatement. Everyone at the party had taken the time to fetch you a drink or wish you a happy birthday. Mick Mars had even placed a tiara on your head and wrapped a birthday sash around your body.

Throughout the night you danced with Tommy, Vince, and Y/B/F, downing drinks and singing along to the music blasting through Vince’s home without a care in the world. Every so often, your eyes would wander to the corner of Vince’s bar where a man with black hair and a leather jacket casually sipped his beer, throwing a wink in your direction whenever you stared at him. He undoubtedly watched you the whole night, taking in the sway of your hips in the black party dress.

You were sitting outside eating a piece of cake enjoying the fresh air when Y/B/F tapped your arm. “Okay, Nikki Sixx has been staring at you all night.”

Cocking your head to the side, you took another bite of cake. “Who?”

Y/B/F’s eyes went wide before she slapped your thigh. “Uh, Nikki fucking Sixx...Vince’s bandmate…the bass player for Mötley Crüe! C’mon, Y/N, I know you’re not that into rock music but damn, how do you not know who he is? He’s the definition of sex.”

Looking behind you, you noticed the same man from earlier. He had switched from beer to a bottle of Jack Daniels and had rid himself of the leather jack, showing off his tattooed arms. When he caught you looking at him again, he sent a smirk your way. It was a bold one at that, daring you to approach.

“Why are you just sitting there?” Y/B/F asked. “Go talk to him.”

“Nah,” you said cheerfully, finishing the rest of your birthday cake. After throwing the plate in the nearest trash bin, you shot Nikki a smile before turning back to your friend. “If he’s interested, he’ll come to me.”

Not even a minute later you felt a tap on your shoulder as you were dancing in Vince’s living area. Your eyes widened at how tall the man was and how his smile seemed to be the brightest light in the room.

“Hi gorgeous,” he said, sending a wink your way. “Would you like to dance?”

You eyed him up and down as he did the same to you. “I was wondering when you were going to come introduce yourself. Tell me about yourself, handsome.” You said, curling a strand of hair around your finger.

“I’m Nikki,” he replied with a grin. “And my secret talent is picking out the prettiest girl in the room to dance with, so it’d be a shame if you turned me down.”

“She’s not your type,” said a snooty voice. You and Nikki turned to see a short, busty girl with bright purple hair. You remembered Tommy calling her Liza. Her lips were pursed together in a thin line as she glared directly at you. “If you’re trying to get laid, you could do so much better. Like me, for example.”

“Yo, what the fuck is wrong with you?” Nikki seethed, cowering over Liza. Biting your lip, you clenched your fist. “Who the fuck do you think you are?”

“Don’t worry, Nikki, I’ve got this.” With a forged smile, you grabbed Liza by the pony tail and dragged her outside. Party goers watched from inside the house and on the patio as you pushed Liza into the pool, completely drenching her.

“You bitch,” She squealed, flailing her arms wildly. “Do you know how much this fucking dress cost?

Bending down, you shot Liza the fakest smile. “Frankly, I don’t give a damn about you or your dress. The only important things you need to know are one, I look fucking hot in my dress and two, Nikki’s head will be between my thighs tonight, not yours.” Grabbing a beer from the closest cooler, you cracked it open, pouring the contents over Liza’s head. “Now I know this is Vince’s house, but this is my party. So, do yourself a favor and get the fuck out.”

You watched Liza’s eyes widen in horror as cheers and laughter erupted around you. Crinkling the beer can, you chucked it in the trash bin before prancing back inside the house where Nikki was watching the scene unfold with a shit-eating grin on his face.

Sheepishly, you tugged your dress down. “Listen, I’m not sure if you meant what you said earlier or if you were just messing around, but--.”

“Are you kidding?” Nikki asked. His grin widened, if it were even possible. “A girl that defends herself like you did is so fucking hot, and that,” he said, jerking his thumb toward Liza, who was struggling to climb out of the pool. “Was fucking badass, babe. I think I’m in love.”

Chuckling, you shook your head and smoothed a piece of hair behind your ear. Nikki took a step forward, cupping your cheek tenderly. “Now, what was that thing you said about my face between your thighs?”

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

The next morning you woke up in one of Vince’s guest bedrooms, Nikki sleeping peacefully beside you. Sighing, you pulled the thin sheets up to your chin.

Nikki had made you feel like the most beautiful woman. It’s a damn shame he probably only wanted some action, a typical rockstar. The kisses, his touches, everything was so light, gentle, loving.

Quietly, you shimmied to the side of the bed, halfway out when you felt a hand wrap around your thigh. “Where do you think you’re going?”

You searched your brain for an excuse and then sighed and instead opted for the truth. “Isn’t this what usually happens after you have sex with a rockstar? You leave?”

“Well yeah, but only if it’s a one-time thing,” Nikki yawned, offering you a tired smile. “What you and I did last night? That’s not a one-time thing, princess.”

With pink cheeks, you sat on the end of the bed. Did he want to see you again? Or maybe he just wanted to have sex one last time?

“You look confused,” Nikki whispered. “I meant what I said last night, Y/N. You’re beautiful, everything about you is beautiful.”

“I feel like I’m not someone you usually go for,” You murmured. “I’m not your type.”

“My type?” Nikki snorted. “My type is a gorgeous, strong woman who is confident, kind, and gloriously sexy. You match that description perfectly.”

He pulled you closer to his chest, lazily drawing shapes on your legs. Your briefly shattered confidence had been restored the moment Nikki looked at you last night as if you were the only woman in the room.

As you watched his fingers dance across your thighs, you realized that no, he wasn’t just looking for sex. He was looking for you.

[allimariexf]

alli’s Arrow 1x20 rewatch thoughts

“Don’t worry, Felicity, they don’t send blondes there.”

“Well I dye it, actually, -- I keep your secret!”

And then the look he gives her!!!

Yep, he’s still totally charmed by her, and actually smiles. I think this is the first time he’s let this honest reaction to her, as a person, show in the foundry. Which is significant, because down in the foundry is where things are “real.” Where everyone knows everyone’s big secrets and where they’re honest with each other and no one is playing a part. Where Oliver being charmed by and playful with Felicity becomes a part of who he is and who they are together, rather than just a part they’re playing. Yep. :)

Dig and Felicity giving Oliver trouble over his “friendship” with Laurel -- this is actually progress. A few months ago (pre-Felicity) Oliver would not have let anyone get after him after his personal life and choices.

The murder of Laurel’s clients is harsh. Has Arrow gotten less violent? Or maybe just less realistic, which tends to reduce the effect of violence.

NAKED OLIVER IN A TOWEL WHY DO WE NOT GET THIS ANYMORE? CAN WE PLS HAVE IN SEASON 7 WITH FELICITY PLS???

@blondeeoneexox you mentioned in last week’s discussion that they totally squandered Colin Donnell - I totally agree! We see him in these episodes butting heads with Oliver, trying to grow as a person and understand how Oliver has changed, wrestling with how Laurel fits into everything, and it’s awesome but also very angsty. I wish they had time to move and grow beyond this. :( And Tommy with this little kid, talking about his mom! 😭 Then swallowing his pride to take Laurel and the kid to Oliver’s house.

I love Shado. But I don’t love Oliver with Shado. First of all, he has that island hair. Second, he’s still pretty foolish. Third, Oliver just falls for women too easily. And fourth, obviously Shado mainly fell for Oliver because he was like a sweet puppy she rescued from certain death. Conclusion: ick. Their relationship would have been just as deep, and less gross, minus the sex. (I get it, though...Slade’s “jealousy.” Even though “fighting over a woman’s affection” is soooo icky. And yeah, I know the fact that her love “belonged” to Slade is just Slade’s mirakuru-crazed delusion, but even so. ICK. Shows should just not even go there. It’s too easy, too misogyny-normalizing.)

“I want you to get into his corporate accounts….anything that may link him to the killer.” I still get all giggly at this point in the show when Oliver relies on Felicity for stuff. Just like a well-oiled machine already even though she’s only been an official member of the team for like barely over a month.

I miss this casual throwaway humor:

“Do you have a police radio in your pocket?” “No, I’m just happy to see you.”

“You know, what position gives you the best shot at Lawton...I think. He used a lot of military jargon. If you’re sniping a sniper...it’s kind of ironic, don’t you think? Me neither.”

It’s actually so unforgivable that Oliver stands John up on the Lawton plan. At the very least he should have told him he wasn’t planning to show.

Is John wearing the same cap that Oliver wears in the 3x14 flashback (when he is in Starling City at QC and he sees Felicity)?

“Something to say, Felicity?” “Nothing you want to hear.” Honestly what Oliver did was so shitty. I love that Felicity totally stands up for John. Oliver is so lucky Felicity didn’t ditch him then - probably would have been the end of Team Arrow for good.

Ugh I’m so looking forward to putting all the Laurel stuff behind us in season 2. Trying to make all of Oliver’s hang-ups about her is basically the only forced thing about season 1.

So Oliver’s killed 26 (well now 27) people so far. That’s more than I thought.

Tommyyyyyy! Ugh. This Tommy/Laurel/Oliver triangle shit is so annoying and melodramatic and unnecessary and VERY soap-opera-y (take that, Lauriver fanboys with your selective memories) and I really wish this and the next three episodes didn’t play out the way they do. Yick.

Roy: “It feels like my life is connected to his.” 😭

@jules85 @blondeeoneexox @hope-for-olicity @memcjo

[patorucho]

"It must've been painless." Tubbo hummed, staring into an empty void that used to be a beloved but broken nation.

He looked so fragile, I couldn't tell if it was the faint memory of the country or the death that took place within the forgotten nation. That death broke him more than me, and I couldn't have felt more guilty at that.

We all grew older, more mature and less naive than we were the first time that death struck him hard. Tubbo's horns grew longer, sharper, and he disliked it. He told me it reminded him of a past leader, a past corruption and a past father. I had never met him but I heard stories of his deeds, how it affected Tubbo. How it affected him.

I furrowed my brows and looked down at the darkness beneath my feet. If it wasn't for the protective glass, I would've left as he did too. "How would you know?" I rasped out, my throat dry from being silent. We never saw what happened before he left, we only saw his fall. I never forgot his eyes the moment we came into view. Acceptance and pity. As if he knew that we wouldn't want to see it.

"He didn't scream. It was as if he went back to sleep." Tubbo whispered. He rubbed his hands together and huffed. "Maybe he did, and we just never heard." I replied, taking my suit coat off and handing it to him. "It's cold." He didn't reply back but he took it anyway, wearing it over his leaf green button up.

I don't remember if it ever snowed in L'Manburg. I felt like I had only lived in it for a moment before it lost its second life. The air felt cold, ghostly, and dead. It was fitting.

For a few minutes we stayed in silence. The only sounds present were our shallow breathing and the passing moments when the wind would blow. Tubbo had stopped looking at the void but I continued to. The infamous L'Manhole, people called it. The last time we saw it, it was blown up until bedrock. There was no way to destroy bedrock but he figured a way to. Nobody knew how or where he got the explosives.

Rumors say that the Blood God had given it to him, but I knew better. Technoblade had left long before the final war happened. He told me it was getting too loud, getting too important for him to destroy the peace. The voices got bored, they wanted more chaos to ensue, more blood to spill. More trauma for the Blade to handle. So he left, for his sake and for ours. In my opinion if he had stayed for longer, the voices would've been satisfied by the destruction of not only the server, but his family.

"Tubbo?" I opened our door slightly. I had no response back, Tubbo must've fallen asleep. That's good. His sleep schedule had gotten worse but he's slowly getting back to a normal time. I didn't want to disturb him so I changed into something more casual than my suit. The Snowchester coat, some pants and boots. It was colder here than it was back there.

The voices would've loved the death of Tommy Innit.

-- [removed the second section of the wip, it didn't fit the story.] --

"I'll be out, okay?" I informed Michael. I kissed his forehead and he bid me goodbye. I stepped out of the mansion, my boots hitting the snow and letting out a crinkle. I looked around the nation that Tubbo built. Dimly lit lanterns were spread across and to fend off the darkness that the night gave. It was quiet tonight but it snowed.

I went for a walk, I don't know where I'm heading too but I needed to clear my thoughts. I left Snowchester an hour ago but it still felt cold to me despite walking along the shoreline with sand on the ground. I passed by my old panic room, I had used the one built in the mansion but lately my own voices had been quiet. His voice had been quiet. I can't tell if it left when Tommy fell but it felt peaceful. It was almost unnerving.

Sometimes I wished only the Mother Void existed. It's land was already buried more than sixty feet in the ground. It was unfair to me that things that Tommy made were the only ones ever blown up. Forgotten and treated like nothing. I stared at this hole. It was where Tommy's house was. Even though it was a large hole, it barely touched the old wooden bench that stood next to it. Almost as if Tommy forced the void to steer away from an important part of our history.

I can't recall how I had got here but my feet felt like it was the best for me. Another bottomless pit laid beneath me and the protective glass that separated us both. The Forgotten Void.

I would sit on it if I could, but dust lays on it and Prime knows at this point if it could break. It summed the three of us perfectly well. Still standing but brittle enough that the slightest pressure it would snap. I suppose it only applied to two of us now and one of the legs had already snapped, yet it is still standing as if nothing ever happened.

The jukebox beside the bench also laid covered in dust. It probably doesn't work anymore. The only thing that wasn't covered in dust or destroyed was the Enderchest. I opened it and some of my valuable items still stored inside. I pulled out a flower from the chest and shut it gently. An allium. The original gift I had given Tommy for friendship. And I wish I could give it back one more time, like a game of pass the gift, except everyone has already left and you're the winner with the parcel. I didn't feel like a winner then.

I placed the allium on the glass and sucked in a breath. "Tommy..." I started, feeling the cold air hit me and the gift, slightly moving it in the direction of the bench. "Have a flower." I whispered, closing my eyes. The smell and sound of burning flesh came back but I could not help myself.

It was astonishing that a flower could last this long, it looked like it was still freshly picked. I stood again over the glass and stared at the void. It felt like deja vu, if deja vu forgot that a hole wasn't my friend's old house.

By midnight I had returned back home and went to sleep, temporarily stirring away all the memories and trauma. And by morning I had returned back to the bench to discover that the allium had been planted in front of it.

might post an old fic i wrote for lore in my Intertwined au, its ranboo centric and its unedited (i'll just post the bits i liked instead of rewriting it)

it was from july 2021 ^_^