#9 IS A LITTLE BIT OF AN EXAGGERATION BUT. i think i was. 12???? 13 at the latest .

[rotshop]

YOUVE SMOKED???

IMPORTANT ADDITIONAL INFO ; i was on one of those comicaly large lawn chairs and i took up about an eighth of it. btw.

[crossfandomskylines]

In the Space Between: Chapter 5

Other Chapters:

Chapter 1 I Chapter 2 I Chapter 3 I Chapter 4 I Chapter 5 I

Chapter 6 I Chapter 7 I Chapter 8 I Chapter 9 I Chapter 10

Chapter 11 I Chapter 12 I Chapter 13 I Chapter 14 I Chapter 15

Chapter 16 I Chapter 17 I Chapter 18 I Chapter 19 I Chapter 20

Pairing: Glen Powell x OC

Summary: Gabby gets a glimpse of what it means to date someone as popular as Glen Powell. From navigating his crazy schedule and being apart to watching him charm his way through a high-profile interview, she begins to feel the weight of their two very different worlds. Meanwhile, Glen’s unwavering determination to keep their relationship private—and her protected—reveals just how deeply he values what they’re building together. This chapter explores the tender balance of love, trust, and privacy in the early days of their relationship.

Word Count: 2.1k

Warnings: None.

A/N: This chapter is paced a little bit slower. It's kind of more of a filler chapter. The next chapter will have a little more storyline progression, promise!

Please let me know your thoughts with Hearts, Comments, and Reblogs!

Tag List: @djs8891 @queenslandlover-93

Gabby’s phone buzzed on her nightstand, stirring her from sleep. She blinked against the morning light and picked it up, smiling when she saw Glen’s name lighting up the screen. 

Glen: Morning, gorgeous. Just finished my workout and figured I’d better text before you forgot what I looked like.

Gabby: Trust me, I don’t think that’s happening anytime soon 😉 How’s NYC?

Glen: Busy but good! Could be better if I was with you. What are you up to?

Gabby: Eating breakfast. What’s your day looking like?

Glen texted back, sharing a quick rundown of the interviews and meetings he had lined up, adding in funny emojis and exaggerations to make her laugh. 

Then a selfie popped up—him grinning in the studio, hair styled to perfection, with a coffee in hand and a silly look on his face.

Gabby: Looking good! If I didn’t know better, I’d think you were a serious big-name celebrity or something.

Glen: Don’t go putting me in that category. 😉 I’ll FaceTime you after the red carpet later, okay?

Gabby: Deal. And good luck with press today!

Gabby lay back, smiling as she held her phone. Even from miles away, Glen made her feel like she was right there with him. As she got ready for her day, her mind kept drifting back to him, feeling grateful that he was making her such a priority even from the opposite side of the country.

* * * * *

Gabby propped her phone up against a stack of textbooks on her desk, smiling when Glen’s face appeared on the screen. He was leaning back on a hotel bed somewhere in New York City, his eyes a little tired but his grin lighting up as soon as he saw her.

“Hey,” she greeted, noticing the faint lines of exhaustion around his eyes. “Long day?”

He laughed softly, brushing a hand through his hair. “You have no idea. But I want to hear about you. How was your day?”

Gabby rolled her eyes, amused. “My day was nothing compared to yours. You had back-to-back interviews, red carpet events, and probably got to eat fancy food. Meanwhile, I went to the grocery store, paid bills, and folded laundry.”

“I still want to hear all about it,” he said, his voice low and warm. He leaned forward a little, as if by sheer will he could get even closer to her through the screen. “Come on, don’t leave anything out.”

With a playful eye-roll, she recounted her day, describing her trip to the mall and her struggles finding parking. Glen listened like it was the most fascinating thing he’d heard, chiming in with little jokes and plenty of encouragement. She could tell he genuinely cared about the little things, and it made her heart skip a beat.

After a few moments of quiet, Glen’s voice came through softly, a hint of excitement in his tone. “You know...I was thinking. When I get back to L.A., maybe we could plan to do something together? Just us.”

Gabby’s smile widened, and she leaned closer to the screen. “Like a date? Or just hanging out?”

“Maybe both,” he replied with a grin. “We could grab dinner somewhere cozy, maybe take a drive along the coast, or even just spend a lazy day in. Whatever you want—just as long as I get to see you.”

She laughed, feeling her heart flutter. “I like the sound of that,” she admitted. “Any idea when you’ll be back?”

“I think I’ll have a couple of days free next week,” he said, glancing off-screen as if mentally checking his schedule. “I’ll keep you posted, but I’m not waiting any longer than I have to.”

Gabby’s cheeks warmed as she bit her lip, loving the idea of him going out of his way to plan something special. “You sure about that? You might be exhausted by the time you get back. I understand if you want to rest or if you need sleep.”

“Doesn’t matter,” Glen said, his voice low but sincere. “Seeing you is worth it. Besides, something to look forward to is exactly what I need to get me through this press tour.”

For a moment, the distance between them didn’t seem so big. The way he looked at her through the screen, like she was all he wanted to focus on, made Gabby feel as though they were already together in that cozy little moment he was planning.

After a while, she noticed his head dipping slightly, eyes blinking a little longer than usual. 

“Glen,” she murmured gently, “maybe we should call it a night. You need some rest, and you’ve got a full day tomorrow.”

But Glen shook his head, fighting a yawn. “No way. Talking to you has been the best part of my day—don’t take that from me.” His grin softened, and he looked at her with a kind of adoration that sent warmth spreading through her chest.

Gabby chuckled, feeling her cheeks heat up. “Well, I suppose I can’t argue with that,” she murmured, her smile softening. “But as soon as you start snoring, I’m hanging up.”

“Fair deal,” he laughed. “Just… don’t hang up yet.”

They spent a few more quiet minutes together, talking about little things and the plans they’d make once he was back in Los Angeles. Gabby could feel herself getting lost in his voice, realizing that even from miles away, Glen somehow made her feel closer to him than anyone else ever had.

* * * * *

The morning sunlight filtered through the curtains of Gabby’s living room as she settled onto her couch, remote in hand. She flipped absentmindedly through the channels, letting the hum of morning shows fill the background. But her fingers stilled when a familiar face appeared on the screen, seated on a sleek studio chair, his easy smile lighting up the room.

Glen.

Her heart skipped as she set the remote down, turning up the volume. He looked as polished as ever, dressed in a tailored suit jacket and black tee that complemented his broad shoulders and relaxed charm. The host, a charismatic woman, leaned forward with a warm smile.

“So, Glen, your latest movie is shaping up to be one of the summer’s biggest hits. How does it feel to have such a blockbuster under your belt?”

Glen chuckled, his voice smooth and confident. “It’s been incredible, honestly. The whole team worked so hard, and seeing audiences respond the way they have—it’s just the best feeling.”

The host beamed. “And you’ve been everywhere lately—red carpets, premieres, interviews. How do you manage to stay grounded with such a demanding schedule?”

He shrugged with a slightly boyish grin. "I'm really lucky to have a great support system. Family, friends...they're always there to support me and help keep me grounded. I also moved back to Austin last year and I think getting out of Hollywood and being able to enjoy my time off back home has helped a ton."

The conversation drifted to his upcoming projects, but Gabby couldn’t help but admire how effortlessly he navigated each question, balancing humor and humility. Then the host leaned forward conspiratorially, her voice taking on a playful lilt.

“Of course, fans are curious—your star is rising quickly, and you’ve become quite the heartthrob. Is there anyone special in your life right now? Or are you still single and enjoying the ride?”

Gabby’s breath caught, her grip tightening on the arm of the couch. Glen’s expression didn’t falter; his smile softened, but his eyes held steady.

“Well,” he began, his tone measured, “I think some things are best kept private in my life. But I will say, I’m very happy right now.”

The host raised her brows knowingly. “A mystery, huh? Fair enough, Glen. We’ll just have to keep guessing for now.”

As the interview wrapped up and transitioned into a commercial break, Gabby stared at the screen, her emotions swirling. His response had been perfect—diplomatic without dismissing her or their relationship entirely.

Yet the weight of what his public life could mean for her settled on her shoulders. What if he hadn’t been able to deflect the question so smoothly? What would happen when people found out about her? Would they scrutinize her every move? Would they think she wasn’t good enough for him?

The rest of the day passed in a haze of overthinking. She couldn’t shake the image of Glen in that studio, handling the spotlight with ease, while she felt like a shadow on the edge of his world.

That evening, her phone buzzed, Glen’s name flashing on the screen. She answered the FaceTime call, her heart lifting at the sight of his familiar grin.

“Hey, you,” he said warmly, leaning back against the headboard of his hotel bed.

“Hey,” she replied, her tone softer than usual.

His brow furrowed slightly, and he tilted his head. “What’s on your mind? You’ve got that look.”

Gabby hesitated, then decided to tell him. “I watched your interview today.”

“Ah, the morning show,” he said, smiling. “What’d you think? Did I embarrass myself?”

“No,” she said quickly. “You were great. It’s just…” She trailed off, biting her lip. “That question about your dating life—it threw me a little.”

Glen’s face softened, his voice gentle. “Gabby, I meant what I said that night in the truck. I want to keep what we have private for now. Not because I’m not proud of you—believe me, I am. I just… I want to protect this. Protect you. Until you’re ready for any of that attention.”

She nodded, her voice quiet. “I just worry. What happens when people do find out? Will they… approve?”

His gaze locked onto hers through the screen, steady and sincere. “I don’t care what anyone else thinks. I care about you. And I’m willing to do whatever it takes to keep us strong—whether that means late-night calls, carving out time to see you, or keeping this under wraps for as long as you need. And whether people like you or not doesn't matter. You make me happier than I've been in a long time, and that's all I care about.”

His words were like a balm to her nerves, and she felt herself relax.

“Thank you,” she murmured, her lips curving into a small smile.

“Don’t thank me,” he replied, a teasing glint returning to his eyes. “Just promise me you’ll keep talking to me if things start to be much. I want to know what you’re thinking.”

Gabby smirked before saying, “I’m not sure you want to know all my thoughts.”

“I do. I want to know every single one of them.” Glen encouraged. “Promise me that you’ll keep talking to me?”

Gabby nodded, the weight on her chest lifting. “Yes, I promise.”

For the first time that day, she felt at ease, reminded that no matter how chaotic his world seemed, Glen was determined to make her part of it in a way that felt safe and real.

Gabby stifled a yawn as their conversation began to wind down. She had curled up in bed, her phone propped up against a pillow as Glen’s face filled the screen. His voice, low and soothing after a long day, made her feel as though he were right there beside her.

“I think I’d better let you get some rest,” she murmured reluctantly. “You’ve had such a long day.”

Glen smiled softly, his eyes warm despite the exhaustion etched on his features. “You need rest too, you know. We both have big days tomorrow.”

“Yeah, but yours involves cameras and people. Mine is just chores and cleaning,” she teased.

He chuckled, the sound rumbling through the phone. “Still important. Now go to sleep, beautiful.” His tone dropped slightly, tender and sincere.

Gabby’s heart gave a little flutter. She tucked her blanket around herself and grinned. “Goodnight, Glen. Sweet dreams.”

“Goodnight, gorgeous. Sweet dreams to you too." He responded.

As the call ended, Gabby set her phone down, her smile lingering. Glen had a way of making her feel cherished, even from miles away.

[tin-wufborf]

Tin's Favorite Sterek Fics (Part 19)

Hello, and welcome to part fucking 19 of Tin's Favorite Sterek Fics. Good lord, how the hell have I gotten to 19 of these?? I cannot believe!!!

As always, thank you all so much for all of the love you continue to show this little series of mine. I never really expected any of these posts to get more than a passing notice from anyone, so to see that so many of you have liked and shared this series is honestly kind of mind boggling but also pretty cool. Because I just want everyone to read these stories, ya know? Like, I really love all of these fics that I'm recommending. I wasn't lying or exaggerating when I said that I re-read these fics all the time. I love these stories, and I want others to love them too.

I won't go on some of the crazy tangents that I do IRL, but I fucking love fan fiction. I truly believe that a good chunk of the world's more trivial issues could be solved by people simply getting into the right kind of fanfic for them. Because there's really something out there for everyone so long as you're willing to look for it, and I just think that is the coolest thing, you guys. It's just the bees knees. So to be able to share these lists of my favorite Sterek fics has been such a fun and fulfilling endeavor, and I am glad to have been able to share it with you all.

Okay, enough sap from me! I have admittedly imbibed a bit before writing this up, so I am a little bit in my head right now as well as in my feelings.

I hope you're all having as good a day as you can, if not a great one.

Smoochies and squeezies!

List and links to previous/next part(s) below the cut.

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DISCLAIMER: This is me warning you all that some of the fics I've included in this list may cover explicit, dark, and/or "taboo" subject matters. I cannot express enough how little I care what anyone thinks about any of that; all I want is for you to use caution when reading anything I've listed here and to please review and heed whatever tags the authors have provided in order to keep yourselves safe. Your experience from this point on is your own responsibility, not mine and not the authors'.

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Part 1 | Part 2 | Part 3 | Part 4 | Part 5 | Part 6 | Part 7 | Part 8 | Part 9 | Part 10 | Part 11 | Part 12 | Part 13 | Part 14 | Part 15 | Part 16 | Part 17 | Part 18 | Part 19 | Part 20

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Family Day by klutzy_girl (T | 1/1 | 2,447)

Derek and Stiles spend the day with Stiles' (and Scott's) younger sister and come to a few realizations.

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You aren't broken by GreyHaven (G | 1/1 | 4,339)

Derek doesn’t understand sex. Well, no, that makes him sound innocent and sheltered and he isn’t either of those things.

But he doesn’t understand the appeal of sex.

The one in which Derek thinks he's broken and tries to break up with Stiles. Stiles doesn't let him and insists on an open conversation which leads to Derek realising he's not broken, he's asexual. But can Stiles accept that?

(Spoiler alert: of course he can.)

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and the wild things roared their terrible roar by hoars (E | 1/1 | 4,905)

Derek as Khal Drogo (but set in snow beyond the wall) and Stiles as Daenerys Stormborn (although he's a greenseer of the Children rather than a dragon).

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Show Me Your Igloo and I'll Show You Mine by DiscontentedWinter (E | 1/1 | 4,943)

Stiles is finally going to meet the online friend he's had for years.

Instead, the hottest guy in the world walks in.

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that boy is a monster series by hoars (3 works | NR-M | 6,840)

1. monsters steal me away (M | 1/1 | 1,720) There’s a monster in the forest that has taught Stiles to lie and to love. 2. no secret stays secret (NR | 1/1 | 2,558) John follows Stiles into the woods one night. 3. my ghosts approve (NR | 1/1 | 2,562) (optional) Derek loves all his past loves because they all taught him how to love Stiles best.

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Run Wild and Free by greenleaf (T | 1/1 | 6,991)

Derek is a police officer, just recently moved to Beacon Hills, and possibly nursing a crush on the really hot, really powerful doctor with the twin sons.

(Or a story that was almost titled, 'I'm Quite Fawn'd of You, My Deer' but I stopped myself and I don't know why.)

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Do It For The Vine by crossroadswrite (G | 1/1 | 7,108)

“Tammy,” he calls her to attention and his baby daughter turns her sweet hazel eyes to him. “Do you want to go to the skate park tomorrow?”

Autumn gasps and twists until her bony knees are digging into his thighs.

“Daddy,” she says very seriously, placing both hands on his cheeks and looking him in the eye. “Don’t play with my emotions, daddy.” . (OR: in which Derek's daughter gets a skateboard and a cute guy teaching her tricks and Derek just gets the cute guy.)

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The Jackass in the Camaro by isthatbloodonhisshirt (wasterella) (G | 1/1 | 7,237)

To the guy I splashed with water on First and Crown on Thursday, February 27th around seven at night: I am an a**hole. I’m sorry. I was being an impatient driver, and I just wanted to get home, and I cut off the bus to get there faster. I didn’t mean to soak you with rainwater, and I am truly sorry for doing so. That was a total d*ck move of me. With regrets, The Jackass in the Camaro.

Stiles had to re-read the notice four times before he honestly believed he was seeing it with his own two eyes. He’d gotten splashed by rainwater on First and Crown on Thursday around seven while waiting at a bus stop because of an impatient Camaro driver cutting off a bus.

Like, that was actually a thing that had happened. This was a real thing.

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The Plan for Healthy Eating in the Stilinski-Hale Household by inhystereks (G | 1/1 | 8,100)

Melanie burst into tears, screaming about how she didn’t want their daddy to die while Greg tried to comfort her, sending his own anxious glances Stiles’ way. Elena grilled Addie and Clary about whether they knew for sure. The twins started listing examples from their textbook. Ian turned to Derek asking if food could really hurt humans while Kevin turned to Stiles and begged him not to kill himself by eating too many curly fries.

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children of the bad revolution by hoars (NR | 1/1 | 9,506)

Far away and long ago, the only companion Derek has, the only friend and enemy he's known since he was young, is the chain.

Then Stiles happens.

Then the crows.

Then the end of the world.

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to build a home by elisela (T | 1/1 | 13,021)

“You realize you’re at least ten grand over budget on Stiles’ house, don’t you,” Allison says, and he’s not entirely sure if it’s a question or not. “You better hope this works out because we can’t afford to build an entire house for everyone you want to date.”

He doesn’t bother denying it. “I’m going to do a lot of the demo and installation myself,” he says, leaning over her to cross off some of the numbers she’d written down. “It’ll work out.”

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A Crooked Way to Fly by andavs (G | 1/1 | 14,980)

“We can’t just leave him here to die.”

“He’s an emissary, Scott.” Derek tried to make his tone empathetic, but Scott’s tendency to fight back on everything always grated on his nerves. “His pack is gone, he won’t survive more than a day or two either way.”

“Then we should stay with him.”

Derek sighed as he studied the man for a moment; he was too pale against the fur rim of his hood, almost grey from lying out in the snow, and his cloak was stained with dark dried blood around a protruding arrow shaft. It was unlikely he would even last the night. They would probably be able to carry on in the morning with little time lost, if any.

It wasn’t a horrible idea, Derek decided reluctantly. They hadn’t been able to set up a real camp for a few weeks in the open foothills, and they were all on edge from sleeping in exposed areas. A defensible place to sleep would be good for them, even if they were surrounded by death. They would be able to give the pack proper burials, at the very least.

“Fine. One night,” Derek relented, already moving away to check on Isaac. “He’s your responsibility.”

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This Kind of Luxe by sugarybowl, weathervaanes, wishingonalightningbolt (E | 1/1 | 15,113)

As they have for almost every US President since the 1910s, the Prime Minister and the royal head of their country pay a visit to the United States after inauguration. Which is why, when President Jonathan Stilinski is elected into office, Queen Talia Hale of Norland plans their trip.

-0-

Prince Derek and First Son Stiles. Gooey, ridiculous romance ensues.

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Good for you by lilysaid (E | 1/1 | 16,768)

Completely by chance, I saw a "human boyfriend for werewolf roleplay" ASMR video on YouTube and thought 1. Stiles would totally do something as reckless as making an ASMR channel for werewolves 2. He would be really good at it and 3. It would definitely blow up in his face.

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No Other Love by Idday (T | 1/1 | 18,745)

And maybe it’s irony, or the universe at work, or maybe it’s just Derek Hale’s shitty luck, but that’s when, at that exact moment (as Stiles will swear later), there’s a knock on the door. “Laura?” Derek breathes in disbelief, and Stiles feels his own face fall into confused slackness. Because the girl standing in the doorway? The last time Stiles had seen her—or, well, half of her—she’d been very naked, and very, very dead. “Hey, baby bro,” she says with a grin. ... OR: The one where Laura comes back from the dead, and it turns out to be bad for Stiles, because he’s suddenly spending a lot of quality time with one of the coolest people he’s ever met, and her brother. The guy that he might be just a little in love with. He's not okay.

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Nothing Short Of Perfect by GotTheSilver (E | 1/1 | 27,019)

In which Derek and Stiles are made aware of their potential and have to make a choice about what their relationship will be.

“Let me get this straight,” his dad says. “You’re telling me a witch told Derek and yourself that you could be destined to be together and now Derek will be going to college with you?”

Stiles shrugs, resting his hands on his legs to stop himself from fidgeting. “That’s about it, yep.”

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The Weight of an Enchanted Heart by PalenDrome (nerdherderette), 1jet2unknown (E | 1/1 | 31,590)

Marriage to the shape-shifting Alpha King of Lunansholt wasn't on Stiles' bingo card. His magic had other plans.

[excerpt]: Stiles entered Derek’s chambers, slamming the door behind him. “What did you do with my things?”

“These things?” Derek asked, waving his hand with an arched brow.

Stiles gaped when he saw his books lined neatly on Derek’s shelves. His trunk was in the corner, many of his clothes were visible in the partly open wardrobe, and the cloak he’d brought from home hung neatly on a hook.

“It would have been nice if you asked first.” A quick sweep around the room found only one bed. “Where am I supposed to sleep?” he asked, frowning.

“We are married now, Stiles,” Derek said after a moment. “We sleep together.”

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No Mercy by Gia279 (M | 24/24 | 24,743)

The story of the Boy King was this: when he was sixteen, the Stilinski kingdom was at war with the Novak kingdom. King John was on the front lines with his soldiers when his teenage heir came to check in with him. The king was struck down in a nighttime attack, in front of the boy. The boy took up the king’s dropped sword, mounted his war steed, and slaughtered the enemy forces.

When the remaining soldiers surrendered, he cut them down with his father’s sword and returned home a boy king with a bloodstained reputation.

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Salty Sweet by secondstar (E | 11/11 | 46,478)

Derek works at a porn store. One day, Stiles comes in asking all sorts of TMI questions about different toys. That's where it all starts.

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Call Me (Cliché) by orphan_account (M | 18/18 | 84,649)

When the sheriff's sister ends up in a wheelchair for the duration of summer, Stiles' dreams of three months full of pack bonding, late-night video games and bro-time with Scott come crashing down. He's temporarily relocated to Redford, a three hour drive away, and he can already tell he won't be getting many visitors.

Sure the pack will forget about him while he's gone, Stiles is determined to make the most of his summer of isolation, training his body and mind - and his magic - so he can come back with a bang, and maybe catch a certain Sourwolf's eye.

Then Derek shows up at his window one night with a flimsy excuse about needing research done. Suddenly, his summer away is looking a whole lot more interesting.

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[brbsoulnomming]

Tell Me Sweet Little Lies Part 14

Part 1 | Part 2 | Part 3 | Part 4 | Part 5 | Part 6 | Part 7 | Part 8 | Part 9 | Part 10 | Part 11 | Part 12 | Part 13 | AO3

-----

Everyone does end up having to go home. Except him, obviously, and Steve, whose house Eddie has learned he's apparently going to be squatting in until they can figure out a way to clear his name.

Is it squatting if he's invited? Eh, whatever.

Nancy and Robin swing by to drop off the prescriptions they'd picked up for Eddie. Both of them linger, long enough that Eddie thinks they might just stay - kind of wants them to stay, torn between wanting to be alone with Steve and not wanting to be alone with Steve.

Robin hugs Steve really tight, and he folds her up in his arms and holds her close, just staying like that for a long, long few minutes, talking so quietly they can't be heard. Nancy takes both their hands and squeezes when they're done, and surprises Eddie by giving his hand a squeeze as well. Robin looks like she kind of wants to launch herself at Eddie and hug him, too, but she settles for ruffling his hair, and then grimacing when her hand comes away grimy.

He laughs at her, and they promise to check in tonight, then they both leave.

Mrs. Sinclair comes to pick up Lucas and Erica and Max, and Eddie stays out of sight with his heart hammering in his throat, but they don't venture beyond the front hallway. Eddie can't quite make out what she says as she picks them up, but her tone is low and worried, and there's an underlying note of a familiarity, a gratitude, as she speaks briefly to Steve.

Eddie wonders, again, how long they've all been doing this. How many times their parents have worried about them, how many times Steve has apparently brought them home safely, looking beat to hell.

Mrs. Henderson is much louder when she comes to collect Dustin, though she doesn't go into the living room either. He can hear her fussing over the bandages around Steve's neck, asking how bad it is, sounding only mildly reassured when he tells her that it wasn't as bad as Starcourt. She asks him to come stay with her and Dustin, and Eddie thinks he can hear something like longing in Steve's voice when he declines, promising to come to dinner next week instead.

Then it's just him and Steve.

Steve collapses on the recliner, tipping his head back. Eddie's eyes are drawn to the long line of his throat, the stretch of tendons and muscle broken up by white gauze.

His mouth goes dry.

"I've got a guest room ready for you upstairs," Steve says.

His throat works as he speaks, and it takes Eddie a moment to process it.

"Fuck," Eddie mumbles. "Stairs, really?"

Steve laughs softly, tipping his head back up. "Yeah. It's got an ensuite and the bed's decent, we can set you up a lot better in there."

Eddie swallows. He wants to ask why Steve's doing this for him, but he's a little bit afraid of the answer, so he just makes an exaggerated whine of complaint.

It works to make Steve chuckle again, at least, rolling his eyes.

"Yeah, yeah, you'll be glad once you're in an actual bed. Look, I'll get you some food and your next dose of meds first, just hang tight for a bit."

Eddie grumbles unintelligibly, but honestly, Steve's probably right. He must doze off a little, because the next thing he knows, Steve is gently shaking him awake, helping him sit up, and giving him something.

"What's this?" he asks, blinking blearily down at the bowl Steve handed him. It kind of looks like chunky baby food, though it smells pretty good.

"Oh, uh, frozen shepherd's pie," Steve says. "Not a lot to work with right now, we'll have to see about a grocery run soon. But I figure it's probably at least better than snacks and hospital food."

Eddie shrugs. "Not exactly a picky eater over here," he says as he digs in.

It's warm, and tastes a hell of a lot better than it looks. Like meatloaf and mashed potatoes all mixed up together, all hearty and comforting.

"S'good," he mumbles around a full mouth, prompting Steve to make a face at him.

"Don't talk with your mouth full, gross," Steve bitches.

Eddie feels compelled to stick his tongue out at him, still with some mashed potato remnants stuck to it, and Steve rolls his eyes.

"You make this?" Eddie asks, once he's swallowed the rest of the potato.

"Yeah." Steve scratches the back of his neck, just above the bandage. "Sometimes I'll freeze up smaller portions if I make something big, so I have stuff to grab when I'm in a hurry. Or when I've got recuperating metal-heads in my living room."

Eddie huffs a little laugh. "That a common occurrence? And here I thought I was special," he teases.

"You're something," Steve returns, though the grin he gives him is wide and fond as he reaches for the prescription bag Robin'd dropped off, pulling out the pair of bottles within and reading them over. "You're not due for your antibiotics yet, but you can have the pain meds."

He opens the bottle up, then pauses, frowning down into it. "Did they give you the wrong prescription?"

Ah.

"No," Eddie says, feeling exhausted.

"But we have the same meds, and mine is like. Four times this amount, even though your injuries are way worse, infection aside," Steve says, looking back up at him with his brow furrowed.

"They said it's because I left against medical advice."

Steve snorts. "That's a load of crap."

Eddie sighs. "What do you want me to tell you, Steve? You know what my side job is. The whole town does. Every time I go to the ER for something, to them, I'm just drug seeking."

Steve looks stricken, and god, Eddie's not sure he can take any well meaning pity right now. He kind of wants the couch to just swallow him up.

There's just silence, though, and then Steve's jaw sets in determination. He gets up, leaving Eddie floundering a little and staring after him as he walks into the kitchen, returning with a bottle that looks almost identical to the one Eddie was given.

He sits back down, popping them both open, and promptly tips his bottle to start dumping his own pills into Eddie's.

"Whoa, hey, what the fuck!" Eddie struggles to get up without hurting himself or dropping his bowl, gives up, and tries his best to glare at Steve from his position on the couch under the blankets.

"You need them more," Steve says stubbornly. "It's not like I'm going to take them, anyway."

Fuck, that's worse than pity, and Eddie feels his blood boil.

"No, of course not." Eddie sneers. "Is His Majesty above such petty things like pain? Would he rather muscle through on sheer meathead determination than turn to drugs like the lower class?"

Steve goes very still. "Do you really think that?" he asks quietly.

Eddie opens his mouth to snap that he doesn't have to think it, that Steve just showed him it, but - he looks at the expression on Steve's face instead, how it's gone closed off but it isn't hard, isn't angry. It's just blank. Abruptly, Eddie feels wrong-footed, like he'd fallen back on old habits and responded as the guy everyone thinks he is, to the guy he used to think Steve was.

"No," he says, just as quietly. "I don't really think that."

Steve's frozen exterior melts a little, and he shakes a pair of pills out into his hand, holds them out for Eddie to take. Eddie does, swallows them dry, and shovels another spoon of shepherd's pie into his mouth to keep it occupied. Steve looks like he's thinking about something, and Eddie doesn't want to risk saying something to throw him off.

"It's not that I'm trying to muscle through," Steve says, apparently coming to a decision. "I was drugged last time we dealt with Upside Down shit, it was a whole thing." He waves his hand. "I was high as hell for some of what was going down, and it was. Not a great time."

Eddie tries to imagine fighting off the demobats while drugged out of his mind, and goes a little pale. "Fuck."

"Yeah," Steve says. "I can't really do anything stronger than alcohol or the occasional joint now."

"Fuck," Eddie says, softer and with more feeling. "Jesus Christ, I'm such an ass, why do you even like me?"

Steve opens his mouth, and Eddie flails, slapping his hand over Steve's mouth before he can say anything.

"Nope, nuh-uh, this is an apology, not a ploy to get you to say nice things about me," Eddie insists. "Okay?"

Steve's laughing at him, he can tell just by his eyes, but he waits until Steve nods before he pulls his hand away.

"That's not what I think of you," Eddie says again. "I got defensive and lashed out, and it wasn't fair. I'm sorry."

The laughter in Steve's eyes fades, and he looks - caught out, all surprised and vulnerable, and he's staring at Eddie with something like wonder.

It makes Eddie squirm, feeling both like he doesn't know what he did to get that look and like he never wants it to stop.

"Thank you. Apology accepted." Steve's quiet for a moment before adding, "I'm sorry, too. I could tell you were upset but you didn't want sympathy, so I just."

He shrugs, and Eddie's going to press him more about what he just, but first - "You could tell?"

"Yeah. Your face does this thing - you're usually so expressive, but you just kind of shut down, like you're resigned."

Oh. Fuck. He hadn't realized Steve noticed him like that, and he focuses really hard on the other thing he wanted to push about to avoid thinking about it too much. "So you just?"

Steve gives him a crooked little smile. "Jumped to fixing it. Robin says I have this thing, where if someone I care about is upset and I don't know what else to do, I try to fix it. But sometimes how I try to fix it and what they want are different things."

Eddie's mouth opens, and before he knows it he's said, "I'm okay with that."

Steve blinks at him. "Really?"

Eddie'd shrug, but he's not sure his shoulder - or his entire torso - is up for the motion right now, so he just tries to look as casual as possible while half huddled on the couch, in hospital scrubs. "Yeah. People don't try to fix things for me, not unless it's my uncle. Might be kind of nice."

"Oh." Steve's got this look on his face like he doesn't know what to do with that - maybe he hasn't gotten many people who let him try to fix things for them.

Which, fair enough. Under any other circumstances, Eddie'd probably be one of those, just - he doesn't think he's lying, even not touching the fact that Steve hadn't reacted to what he said. "I'm probably going to be a dick about it when I'm not recovering from being half dead, though," he adds, just to be safe.

Steve snorts. "You've met just about all of my friends, man, that's nothing new. Usually I do a decent job at figuring out when they're just being dicks and when I'm actually going too far, but they're good about telling me when I don't get it right. They do it when I'm being too much of a dick, too."

"I can do that," Eddie decides. "Tell you if you're going too far."

He probably shouldn't make decisions right after leaving the hospital against medical advice, but screw it, he's doing it anyway.

"Okay," Steve says after another moment of consideration, then narrows his eyes at him. "I'm still taking a rain check on telling you all the things I like about you. It's getting to be kind of a long list."

Eddie gapes at him. Fuck, he can feel his cheeks burning, and he really hopes he can blame it on the bite wounds or the pain meds.

Hopes Steve won't ask, because he knows that would be a lie.

"Go away," he says, curling over his bowl so he doesn't have to look at Steve. "Let me eat my luxury baby food in peace before I have to drag my ass up all those stairs."

Steve laughs at him again, but it isn't mean, and he does leave, heading upstairs to - Eddie doesn't really know what Steve Harrington does with his free time when he's not ripping apart demobats or complaining about babysitting, actually.

Huh.

He thinks he might like to find out.

He shovels the rest of his shepherd's pie down methodically, then sets the bowl down on the coffee table and eyes the stairs. Despite his earlier words, he's pretty sure there's no way he's going to make it up them on his own. He pulls in a breath and lets it out, then calls, "Hey, Steve?"

Steve emerges almost immediately, a couple of towels tossed over one shoulder and an armful of plastic bottles. "You done?" he asks, tromping down the stairs.

Eddie eyes him. "What's all that?"

"The hospital did a pretty good job at getting most of the Upside Down grime off of us, but I thought you might want to wash it out of your hair," Steve says.

And fuck, yeah, Eddie really, really wants to - it's not just Upside Down grime, honestly, what with the whole being on the run for a week thing, and it just feels gross. Still, Eddie grimaces.

"Not, uh. Not really sure I can stand up long enough," he admits. "Plus I'm not supposed to lift my arms that high yet."

Steve's ears turn just a little bit pink, and Eddie struggles to keep his expression neutral, not to let his eyebrows raise up or to lean in too hungrily.

"I can wash it for you," he offers. "The laundry room's got a pretty deep sink, and I can pull up a chair and have you lean back a little."

He looks so fucking earnest that it makes Eddie flounder a little, once again having to restrain himself from asking why. Why is Steve doing any of this? Is it just because this seems to be what he does, because he thinks of Eddie as part of their Upside Down fighting group now and is focused on taking care of a party member? Were the handful of stolen moments during all of the fuckery and in the hospital real, or is Eddie just fooling himself that this is something he could actually have?

"Yeah," he says before he even realizes he's agreeing, while his thoughts are still a tangled up mess. "Appreciate it, man."

Steve shoots a smile at him. "Gimme a sec, I'll be right back."

He disappears down the hall for a few minutes, then comes back to help Eddie up. It's slow going, with Steve taking most of Eddie's weight, but he knows it's not going to be near as rough as the stairs will be, so he tells himself it's a practice run.

There's a low backed chair pulled up in front of the sink when they get to the laundry room, a folded up towel already pillowed on the edge of it. Steve guides him to sit down and tilt his head back, neck cushioned by the towel and hair spilling into the sink.

And then -

Fuck, Steve is close.

He's been close before, obviously, he let Eddie get all up in his personal space when they were walking through the Upside Down and he leaned over Eddie's shoulder a few times to watch what he was doing, and Eddie's literally been leaning on him to walk since he got here, but - with all of that, there was something else going on, some kind of other purpose or at least a buttload of pain he was trying to ignore.

Sitting like this, Steve leaning over him as he fiddles with the knobs to get the water to a good temperature, he's just close. Eddie can feel the body heat coming off of him, and he can count every freckle and mole on Steve's forearms, where he'd pushed up the sleeves of his sweatshirt. He's not trying to look, but he can still see the scrawl of writing that disappears under the sleeve of his left arm, can just make out I don't think. He can hear the heavy beat of his own heart and the way his breath quickens, and he forces himself to breathe slow and even, trying not to draw attention to it.

Then Steve's fingers are in his hair, gently sweeping it all together as he starts rinsing it out.

"Shit, man, this might take awhile," he says apologetically. "The water's coming out as black as it did for mine, and I've got less hair."

Eddie hums noncommittally, afraid if he says anything he'll end up telling Steve that's fine by him, they can stay like this all night if he wants to. There's the sound of a shampoo bottle opening, and on his next breath in he's hit with the scent of something, he has no idea what, like a honeyed summer day, all sunshine and sweet and clean.

And then Steve's hands are on him again, fingertips rubbing small circles over his scalp, blunt nails scratching in just the right way to send shivering goosebumps down his spine.

He's not proud of the way it makes him fucking whimper, but mostly because the sound prompts Steve to freeze.

"That hurt?" Steve asks softly.

"No," Eddie manages to get out. "It, uh. Feels nice."

Nice is an understatement, but not a lie, so it's the best he's got right now. It makes Steve continue, at least, so Eddie's taking the fucking win.

His eyes slide shut, and he thinks he might drift off to sleep right there if it weren't for the fact that he really wants to cling to how fucking good this feels. God, he can't remember the last time he felt a physical sensation that wasn't pain or discomfort, and he tells himself that's the reason that this is making him react so strongly.

No one's ever done anything like this for him before. No one's ever wanted to, even before the murder accusations, and between the exhaustion settling over him and the pain meds kicking in and the euphoria of feeling good - Eddie's dangerously close to begging, here. To saying please, just, please can he keep having this, please can this mean something, can this be because Steve wants to and not because he feels obligated.

"You okay?" Steve asks quietly as he rinses Eddie's hair out, and starts lathering up for a second wash.

Eddie hopes it's just a general are you okay, in light of the whole everything, and not a specific hey you look like you're going through something right now. Doesn't actually matter, he guesses, because he still has to say something, and he doesn't know what to say that isn't a lie or isn't something that's too much.

"Haven't, uh. Haven't had anyone do this before," he admits, because that seems like the safest thing to acknowledge.

He thinks what he means by this was pretty obvious, but apparently not, because Steve gives a thoughtful little hum.

"Take care of you?" he asks, cradling Eddie's skull in his hands so delicately it makes him want to weep.

Or shove him off and run until he can't anymore, but that's not any better.

"Fuck, Steve, not holding back any punches here, huh?" he asks, his voice a little raspy.

"I mean. We almost got eaten by demobats together, and we're in kind of a bathroom. That's prime bonding time, for me."

Eddie'd shake his head, but he doesn't want to do anything to dislodge Steve's hands, so he settles for heaving a pointed sigh. "No, Steve, people haven't been lining up to take care of the freak. It's not like I need it, anyway."

Steve makes this little sound - Eddie's not sure he's even aware that he does it, really, but it's like the verbal equivalent to rolling his eyes. "Everyone needs it, sometimes. It's okay to want that, especially after all of this. This isn't the first time some of us have stayed together in the aftermath."

"Yeah? Who looks after you, then?" Eddie asks.

"Robin, usually, sometimes Dustin. Why, you volunteering?"

He can't see Steve's face, but he thinks that was probably meant to come out as teasing. It doesn't quite land there, though, a little too soft, a little too genuine, and it makes Eddie swallow.

"Maybe," he says, feeling his heart beat in his throat.

"Oh," Steve breathes out, his hands stilling for a moment.

Eddie fights not to open his eyes.

"Yeah, okay," Steve says, a little too carelessly, fingertips scratching back over his scalp again. "I look after you, you look after me."

That's not quite what Eddie meant, but he doesn't know how to say what he meant, so he just says, "You don't have to. Take care of me, I mean. Just because you think it's okay to want to be taken care of, you know, it doesn't have to be you."

He waits for Steve to point out that Eddie'd just said that no one else was lining up for the job, maybe make a joke about how it's him or nothing.

Instead, Steve says, "I know. I want to."

Fuck.

If this is the way Steve always is, Eddie can see why so many girls were into him in high school.

When he's reasonably sure his voice isn't going to shake, he says, "Thanks, man. For - all of this."

He's kind of worried Steve is going to tell him that he's doing it because he wants to again, but fortunately that seems to be enough talking about not quite emotions for both of them, because Steve just hums as he starts rinsing Eddie's hair again.

Eddie lets himself relax, sinking into the soft, floaty feeling that wants to pull him down, and just enjoying the feel of Steve's fingers in his hair, the edge of pain blurred and fuzzy from the meds, and finally, finally feeling like maybe he's safe.

It takes another round of lather and rinse for Steve to be satisfied with how clean his hair is, but Eddie sure as hell isn't protesting. Time kind of slips and wobbles, anyway, as he doesn't doze so much as just fucking melt into the chair and under Steve's hands, like all the tension from the last week plus is oozing out of him. He thinks Steve murmurs something about conditioner, but he honestly doesn't care, as long as he can keep sitting here like this.

Eventually, the water's shut off, and Steve's tilting his head up, draping his hair over a towel and gently scrunching it before wrapping it up.

"You awake?" Steve asks, voice a little sing-song like he's teasing.

"Depends on how you're measuring awake," Eddie mumbles back, not entirely sure he managed to get all those syllables out in the correct order.

Whatever he says, it makes Steve laugh softly. "Come on, Munson, up you go. Let's get you to bed."

Eddie's hindbrain immediately takes over, and the next thing he knows he's saying, "Fuck, yes please, finally."

Fortunately, Steve seems to take his eagerness as an eagerness to be in bed in general, and not in Steve's bed specifically, because he just says, "You gotta stand up for that."

Eddie whines, and Steve's hand on his elbow where he'd been tugging him to get up slips, and Eddie looks up at him, eyes wide.

Steve's staring back at him, and holy shit, Eddie might be high on pain meds and a boneless mess from what was basically a head massage, but he knows what desire looks like, knows Steve's eyes are probably a mirror of his own right now.

Then Steve's eyes are closing, and he visibly shakes himself like a fucking dog, before his hand finds its spot on Eddie's elbow again, nice and firm.

"Steve," Eddie murmurs, even though he knows he's missed his moment to speak, because Steve is already guiding him up and wrapping his arm around him to help him walk.

"Not too far, Eds, I promise," Steve says. "We'll be there before you know it."

"Steve," Eddie says again, and this time Steve pauses, swallowing once before he looks at him.

Steve's arm is still around him, and he's so close they're practically breathing the same air - so close he can see the flecks of hazel in Steve's eyes, see the way his lashes brush against his cheek, and Eddie -

He doesn't want to do it like this. Eddie knows he's pretty far gone right now, a little floaty and a little loopy, and he's honestly not sure what words he can even get out of his mouth, let alone if he's going to remember this tomorrow.

"This is gonna have to be mostly you," he says, not letting himself think about how it could mean more than one thing. "I'm barely standing after that, let alone navigating stairs."

Steve laughs softly, steering him out of the laundry room and towards the stairs. "Long as you keep your feet on one side of the steps, you'll at least have one up on Henderson last time I had to help him up the stairs."

"No promises," Eddie replies, but that does make him look down at his own feet, trying to be careful and deliberate about how he places them as they slowly make their way upstairs.

With the meds, it doesn't hurt as much as it probably should. It mostly just takes so much goddamn effort, feels like walking through jello, and Eddie's not ashamed to admit he's breathing heavily by the time they make it to what must be the Harringtons' guest room.

It's… well. It's boring, honestly, minimally decorated, but the bed looks huge and insanely welcoming at the moment, all the blankets turned down and the pillows carefully arranged to resemble the way he'd found was the most comfortable at the hospital. The lamp on the nightstand is glowing softly, and there's a glass of water and Eddie's bottles of pills next to it.

Clean clothes are laid out on the bed - a pair of black boxers, black track pants with a white stripe down the leg, and a dark blue Henley.

Another lump forms in his throat, and he swallows past it as Steve points out the door to the bathroom.

"I'm just down the hall," Steve tells him.

Eddie manages to mumble out a thanks, and only stares at him a little as he walks out of the room, shutting the door behind him.

Honestly, Eddie's too fucking exhausted to sort out anything about anything right now, so he just shuffles his way over to the bed. He strips out of the hospital scrubs, leaves them in a pile right where they fall, and struggles into the clothes Steve's loaned him.

Like the stairs, it doesn't hurt, but he knows that doesn't mean he can risk overdoing it. He's careful, moving gingerly to pull the shirt on and sitting on the bed to step into the boxers and pants. Then he collapses back, tugging the covers over him. His head lolls to the side for a moment as he stares at the lamp.

If he's honest, his decision to leave it on is part that it feels like too much effort to turn it off, and part that he's not sure he wants to be alone in the dark right now.

Maybe in a bit, he thinks, but he's asleep before he can think anything else.

Taglist (let me know if you'd like to be added!): @vampireinthesun @koibug @estrellami-1 @mentalcyborg @allbimyself26 @questionablequeeries @the-s-is-silent @whimsicalwitchm @a-gae-af-racoon @tinyplanet95 @n0-1-important @velocitytimes2 @swimmingbirdrunningrock @newtstabber @jcmadgirl @roblingoblin285 @lexyvey @paperbackribs @goodolefashionedloverboi @evix-syne666 @raisedbylibrarians @stxrcrossed186 @nightmareglitter @greekgeek24 @starman-jpg @crazyhatlady86 @imfinereallyy @manda-panda-monium @deleataecount @prideandsensibility @chaoticvictorianspirit @maydillydally @disrespectedgoatman @scarlet-malfoy @i-less-than-three-you @hbyrde36 @hallucinatedjosten @dragonsandgayships @arepaconchocolate @g4ys0n @novelnovella @bisexualdisastersworld @ghostofyourvampiregf @scarletyeager @pettrichore @nerd-and-nervous @hiimlevi @queenie-ofthe-void @cinnamon-mushroomabomination

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Part 15

[luvangelbreak]

Deprived | Six

Part 1 Part 2 Part 3 Part 4 Part 5 Part 7 Part 8 Part 9 Part 10 Part 11 Part 12 Part 13 Part 14 Part 15 Part 16 Part 17 Part 18 Part 19 Part 20 Part 21 Part 22 Part 23 matthew sturniolo x layla venita (female!oc) summary: everyone knows the story of the bad boy and the good girl but what happens when the school's most popular boy, Matthew Sturniolo, and the girl who notoriously is never there, Layla Venita, cross paths. warnings: swearing, smoking (cigarettes) word count: 2.3k a/n: this part was a little shorter than I wanted but I didn't wanna add the next part and make it super long.

pov: layla

The first two-thirds of the game flew by quickly and Allie cheered next to me the whole time. The arena filled up quickly with our peers and family members of Matt's team as well as the opposition. I was thankful I understood the game already and didn't have to have Matt mansplain it to me beforehand. There was a 15-minute intermission for the teams to discuss their strategies between each third and the last one had just started before the final third.

"What do you think so far?" Allie asked me, a smile still on her lips and I looked at the scoreboard to see that they were losing by 12 points.

"So much for being the best hockey team in the state," I raised my eyebrows teasingly with a small smile on my lips and she shook her head with a smile that widened.

"Oh before I forget, can I get your number?" Allie asked hopefully and I nodded, pulling my phone out of my pocket and unlocking it.

"Just put your number in and message yourself," I said as I handed her my phone and she nodded in response, clicking on my contacts.

Before she could speak again, she got interrupted by someone calling my name. I turned my head to the rink where I saw Matt standing at the entrance to the rink, still on the ice that way his skates didn't get fucked up by the hard floors. He was holding his helmet and stick in one hand as he seemed slightly out of breath, his hair fluffed up from being in the helmet.

"Come here!" Matt called out to me with a wave of his gloved hand.

I looked at Allie in confusion and she shooed me away with her hands. I quickly got up and walked down to the rink, feeling eyes watching me as I walked up to Matt.

"What's up?" I asked, confusion clear on my face as he looked down at me, the slight elevation of the rink as well as his skates making him a lot taller than usual.

"You good?" he asked, swiping the small bead of sweat that was running down his forehead.

"I should be asking you that," I raised my eyebrows before my eyes glanced to the scoreboard, "What happened to breaking a leg, Captain?"

He smirked with a shrug of his shoulders, "Maybe I need a bit of extra luck today."

"What are you implying?" I squinted my eyes at him and he looked behind me at the small crowd of people before returning his gaze to mine. His sky-blue eyes seemed brighter from the reflection of the lights on the ice and his smirk widened.

"How about a kiss for good luck?" he asked, his eye glimmering with mischief and I raised my eyebrows, making an unimpressed face.

"Just because you're losing by 12 points doesn't mean I'm gonna kiss you to make you feel better," I told him matter-of-factly and he smiled shaking his head.

He shrugged as he adjusted the glove on his left hand, "Worth a shot."

I sighed up at him before biting my lip. My eyes glanced down to his pink lips that were pouted slightly as his mouth hung open, his breathing still slightly heavy. He stared down at me, making an over-exaggerated sad face and I rolled my eyes.

"You're the worst," I mumbled before I reached forward, placing my hand on the back of his neck as I leaned over the railing and pecked his cheek lightly. I pulled back to see the genuine shock on his face as I held my hand on the back of his neck still, "You better win after that, pretty boy."

I moved my hand from the back of his neck and patted his clean-shaven cheek as he continued to stare down at me. He looked like he was about to say something but got interrupted.

"Matt! Pull your head outta your ass. Let's go!" Chris skated past him as he yelled at him and Matt snapped his head to his brother before looking back to me.

"Another one for good luck?" he smiled at me cheekily and I stepped back so I was no longer leaning over the railing.

"Don't push it," I smiled at him and he shook his head, sliding the helmet back over his head before nodding at me. I backed away from him as he pushed away from the railing and effortlessly glided back over to his team. I jogged back up the stairs to where Allie was sitting, cheesing at me like she'd just won the lottery, "What?"

"Nothin'," she downturned her smile to try to hide it as she looked back into the ice.

+++

The rest of the game went by quickly and Matt's team redeemed themselves. By the end of the game, the score was a tie at 21 all around. In order to break the tie, a shootout was put in place.

I noticed the 3 players picked for Matt's team were Nate, Chris and Matt. The opposition decided to shoot first, getting the score within a few seconds. Nate was up next to shoot and he glided across the ice effortlessly before he scored the goal.

I cheered along with Allie now, feeling the adrenaline that she was. The opposition was up again and once again, they scored. A cheer was heard around the arena from the supporters as our team sighed or groaned in disappointment.

Chris was up next to shoot and he took his time as he glided towards the goal. Tension was building in my stomach as Chris took the shot and he scored, throwing his fist up triumphantly.

The opposing team was up for their last score and I chewed on my lip as I leaned forward, praying that he would miss it. To our luck, he took the shot too early and Daniel blocked it, sending me into a cheer of victory as Allie bounced in her seat.

Matt was up last, being the decider of the tiebreak. He slid to the middle of the ice, the puck being placed directly next to his puck. He seemed to take a breath, looking over in my direction and I saw a glimpse of a smile behind his helmet before he looked back at the goalie who was blocking his path.

Within an instant, he flashed down the ice and as he got closer to the goal, I chewed on my lip harder. He was about 4 feet from the net and he hit the puck at lightning speed but the goalie didn't drop down fast enough and the puck flew into the net.

I jumped up from my seat and cheered in pure joy with Allie who jumped up and down next to me. I looked over to see Chris flying towards Matt on the ice and collided with him, pulling him in a hug.

"I can't believe he just did that!" Allie screamed next to me and I smiled widely at her, "He's never taken a shot like that!"

"What does winning this game mean?" I asked her as she beamed beside me, picking up her bag.

"They're onto the semi-finals," she clapped her hands excitedly and I raised my eyebrows.

"I didn't know these last three games were such a big deal," I told her honestly and she nodded before I spun around, making my way down the steps, "Where do we go?"

"They need to shower and get changed. I usually just wait outside," she told me and I nodded before making my way to the exit. I watched as family and friends from the other team exited the building with disheartened looks covering their faces and I could easily tell who was cheering for Matt's team since their faces were lit up in joy.

As we walked through the entry area before reaching the doors to go outside, I felt someone tap my shoulder before saying, "Excuse me."

I spun around to see a girl who couldn't have been much younger than me with dark brown hair, "Yeah?"

"Are you the girl who was talking to the Captain of the Bats?" she asked and I furrowed my eyebrows in confusion.

"Uh... yeah. Why?" I questioned, glancing at Allie as she just shrugged, looking just as confused as I was.

"Oh, no reason. Just wondering," she quickly said before she ran back into the arena and I shook my head.

"Well that was fucking weird," I stated and Allie hummed in response as I turned around, making my way outside to wait for the boys.

I leaned against the cold brick wall, the sun now set making the air even more chilly. Allie stood in front of me, shivering from the cold wind and I looked over at her.

"Fuck it's cold out here," she mumbled as she slid her hood on.

"Do you want my jacket?" I asked and she tilted her head at me.

"Then you'll be cold," she furrowed her eyebrows and I shrugged, starting to slide the jacket off of my body.

"I like being cold. Don't worry about it," I handed her the jacket and she gave me a thankful smile. Since she was significantly shorter than me and her puffer jacket was small, the leather jacket was easily slid over the top of it, "Just make sure to give me it back before you go. I wear that every day."

"I wouldn't dream of stealing this from you. I never see you without it unless we're in gym," she said and I nodded as I slid my cigarettes out of my pocket.

"You mind?" I asked and she shook her head with a smile. I nodded as I pulled one out, placing it between my lips before I lit the end of it. I slowly started puffing the cigarette, making sure to blow the smoke away from her face.

"How long have you been smoking?" she asked and I shrugged, flicking the ash on the ground as a group of people walked by looking at me in disgust.

"Like three years," I answered honestly and she seemed surprised, "I started when I was fifteen."

"Oh wow," she looked at me with wide eyes, "My parents would fucking kill me if I ever did that."

With a shrug, I told her, "My dad gave me my first cigarette. Along with everything else."

"Everything else?" she asked, sounding genuinely interested rather than judgemental.

"Weed, beer, shrooms, molly. The whole thing," I explained and she nodded, seeming deep in thought. Before I could explain anything further, I heard a burst of noise come through the doors of the arena entrance and both Allie and I looked over to see Matt's whole team walking out together.

Allie ran over to Chris, jumping on his back and ruffling his hair, "You guys did fucking amazing!"

"Thanks, Al," Chris smiled at her as she slid off of his back, hugging Matt and Nate next. I stood in place, still smoking the last of my cigarette before I threw it on the ground, squishing it with my foot.

Matt turned around to look at me before turning his whole body to face me as I walked towards him, "So, what did you think?"

Instead of congratulating him verbally like I was originally planning on doing, I leaned up and placed another kiss on his cheek before I pulled back and said, "That's for winning."

"What would've happened if I lost?" he asked as he smirked down at me and I shrugged, biting my lip nervously.

"Don't lose and you won't ever have to find out," I smirked up at him before he chuckled, swinging an arm around my shoulders.

"Let me introduce you to everyone," he said as he started walking towards the group again, "Layla, this is Ethan, Ryder, Sam and you've already met Dan, Nate and Chris obviously. Guys, Layla."

"Good job guys," I pursed my lips and they all returned with small mumbles of greetings and thank yous.

"Where we goin'?" one of them said who I now knew as Ryder and Matt shrugged, his arm still around my shoulder.

"Get whatever food you want and we'll meet up at Downs?" Matt suggested and there was a murmur of agreeance before everyone started spitting off into different groups. Chris, Nate, Allie, Matt and I started walking towards where our cars were parked.

"I'll go with Nate," Chris stated once we reached the cars and Matt nodded before Allie spoke up.

"I'm going with Matt and Layla!" she jumped over to us excitedly and I smiled at her enthusiasm.

"See y'all there," Nate waved at us as he slid into his car, Chris hopped in the passenger seat and I looked at Matt.

"What's Downs?" I asked as I rounded the car, Allie jumped into the backseat and slid my jacket off of her body, placing it on to the seat beside her before she slid the back door closed. Matt and I both jumped in, buckling ourselves in.

"It's a parking lot in Downtown. We go there after every good game," Allie explained as Matt handed me the aux cord without a word. I smiled at him, plugging in my phone and clicking on my playlist I curated for situations I'd have to be on aux around multiple people, consisting mainly of pop and rap music.

"What do you guys want to eat?" Matt asked as he adjusted his black hoodie and grey sweatpants, his hair still damp from the quick shower he must've taken.

"Taco Bell!" Allie yelled quickly and Matt looked at me, making a face as if to ask if I was okay with Taco Bell.

I shrugged, picking at my nails, "I'm not really that hungry."

Matt shook his head as he pulled out of the parking lot and started heading in the direction I assumed Taco Bell was in. He turned up the volume on the radio and the song playing was Gold Digger by Kanye. I lip-synced to the words, looking out the window as I did so. I turned my head back to look at Allie who was dancing by herself in the back seat making me giggle at her over-the-top dance moves.

"Hey can you do me a favour?" Matt asked, talking over the music and I turned my head to look at him, "Can you just write down everything you guys want so it's easier for me to order?"

"Sure," I replied, pulling my notes app up before handing my phone to Allie, thankful that the aux cord was long enough to reach to her, "Write down what you want from Taco Bell."

"Oh right," Allie paused her dancing, quickly typing in what she wanted before handing the phone back to me. She resumed her dancing and I shook my head with a smile.

"Do you want me to write yours down too?" I asked Matt and he shook his head.

"Nah it's fine. Just write what you want," he responded and I chewed at my lip, just typing a large Pepsi into the notes app and I noticed Matt glance at me, "Get food. You haven't eaten since 3:30 at the very least."

"I had some of Allie's Sour Patch Kids," I told him and he shook his head as we stopped at a red light, turning his body to face mine.

"Get food," he deadpanned and I just looked at him.

"I had a big lunch," I answered and he continued staring at me.

"Layla, get something," he repeated as the light turned green and we drove down the street further, "And you're not paying me back."

"God you're so annoying," I grumbled before typing in a taco with just lettuce and cheese into my notes app.

"I love this song!" Allie chirped from the back, leaning forward to turn up the volume even further as the verse of Kill Bill by SZA began playing. She threw herself back into her seat before she started singing. I quietly sang along with her as Matt bopped his head to the music.

tags:

@leprechaunbirthdaygirl

[loveinhawkins]

Part 1 Part 2 Part 3 Part 4 Part 5 Part 6 Part 7 Part 8 Part 9 Part 10 Part 11 Part 12 Part 13 Part 14 Part 15 Part 16 Part 17 Part 18 Part 19 Part 20 Part 21 Part 22 Part 23 Part 24 Part 25 ao3

Eddie helps Steve upstairs, lets him go in the bathroom first. By the time Eddie has gone in there himself, has finished brushing his teeth… he overhears Steve on the phone in his bedroom.

Eddie pauses. He hadn’t heard the phone ringing, but he might not have been able to catch it under the sound of running water. He will never know who called first.

Then he wonders why that even matters so much—or more, what kind of difference it would make. Whether it makes a difference at all.

He doesn’t know whether to leave Steve to it, but his gut tells him to follow the sound of Steve’s voice.

Steve is sat on the bed, the phone cradled between his ear and shoulder. His hands are in his lap; he’s pinching at the skin just before his thumb again. Pinching hard.

“No, no, I’m good. Yeah, the… no, the news must’ve exaggerated, mom. Well, a window broke here, but… yeah, lucky escape, right?”

He lies so easily, lies with a smile… even while he’s crying.

Eddie thinks that if he closed his eyes and just listened, he might never have known. Steve’s tears are perfectly silent, his voice steady. 

“Yeah, I’ll let you go. Hey, mom?” And Steve’s breathing hitches just once. Eddie wonders if he’s the only one who can really hear it. “Thanks for the tapes.” He laughs, voice wavering for only a second. “Just came into my head, that was all. Thought I’d better say.” He swallows. “Love you, too.”

It’s only once he’s hung up that Steve allows himself to let go, and even then he’s quiet—passing a hand roughly over his eyes, sniffling very occasionally. Then he looks over at Eddie, left frozen in the doorway.

“They don’t know, okay? I don’t want you thinking…” Steve sighs. “I changed my emergency contacts ages ago. Hopper, Joyce, Robin—hell, I even put Claudia down ‘cause Dustin’s a nosey little shit and I know he’d pick up. It’s… easier this way,” he says.

And Eddie suspects that while Steve’s ostensibly talking about The Upside Down stuff, he also means something more.

Eddie thinks of Wayne, of how easy he makes everything—how all he said was Try me in the hotel room, right before his understanding of the world was changed forever. How Eddie has never, not once, had to doubt his love.

Steve wipes perfunctorily at his eyes then reaches for his crutches.

“Come downstairs with me? I wanna show you something.”

-

Steve directs Eddie to a video tucked behind the musicals collection. Eddie puts it in to play before taking a look at the cover.

Simon and Garfunkel - The Concert in Central Park.

“You educating me on more music, Steve?”

But instead of taking the opportunity to make a joke, Steve hesitates. “Yeah… if you like.”

Another pause, like he’s readying himself, lining up to the edge of a diving board.

Steve breathes in and out. Nods at the screen. “September 19th, ‘81. I was there. And I, um…” His hand briefly rubs over his sternum, like he’s not even aware that he’s doing it, then taps more deliberately on his temple. “I ran there, too.”

Eddie’s breath catches at the implication.

“Worked for a bit, too. But it was—everything was hard to, like, hold onto. Like water slipping through your fingers kinda thing.”

Eddie nods. Clears his throat. “You don’t have to… to say, but. Why were you in New York? Late vacation?”

Steve winces, clearly tries to cover it up.

But Eddie sees. He sighs and closes his eyes in mortification. “I’m an ass.”

“No, you’re—” Steve shakes his head, laughs a bit. “No, you’re not. How were you s’posed to…? No, not a vacation. My Grandpa, on my mom’s side—he lived in New York. And, um… my Grandma, she died a couple of months before, so my mom was already… struggling. And then, when he died, she… there was a lot left for to do, I think. I don’t remember what—just that she was left trying to clean his big house, and my dad was being an asshole, and her brother—my uncle—he might as well have not been there. So she booked a hotel room for me, just so I wasn’t caught up in the screaming match and stuff, y’know? And that day, I just kinda… wandered.”

Eddie can picture it: Steve, a little lost, perhaps, while trying to appear anything but. A boy trying to be a man.

“And I saw whole groups of people heading to the park, so I asked about it. The concert was free, so…” Steve looks off to the side, sighing. “And I just thought… they were my mom’s favourite, y’know?” His voice goes just slightly higher in pitch, strained with emotion, like he’s that kid all over again, unable to solve his mother’s problems. “Her favourite, and she couldn’t even go see them ‘cause it… it was just so shitty. Shitty situation all round. Figured I might as well see them for her. Like that could make things better. Sounds stupid out loud, but…”

“No,” Eddie says, “it doesn’t.”

Steve’s mouth ticks upwards in brief acknowledgment. “It rained while we were waiting, off and on. But, man, I got a great view. There were these two girls—God, they seemed so much older to me at the time, but they were probably only mid-twenties or something. Anyway. They saw I was alone, got kinda concerned I hadn’t brought a jacket, so they gave me one, let me sit on their picnic rug.” This time, his smile has more strength behind it. “Guess they kinda babysat me, huh?”

Eddie smiles back. “Makes a change.”

I’m glad they were there. I’m glad that you weren’t alone.

Steve laughs to himself when America plays, as the lyric, “She said the man in the gabardine suit was a spy,” is sung.

He answers just ahead of the words that follow, delivering them with a grin as if he’s having a conversation with someone: “I said, ‘Be careful, his bow-tie is really a camera.’” He snorts at Eddie’s questioning look, says, “At Starcourt, Dustin had me looking for Russian spies through a pair of binoculars, it was fucking ridiculous… I loved it. Anyway, he didn’t get the bow-tie reference, just went on about how ‘this isn’t James Bond, Steve, this is serious.’ What a butthead.”

And Steve laughs even more as a cover of The Everly Brothers begins: Wake Up Little Susie.

“Oh, dude, I gave Dustin so much shit with this song, you don’t even know. Told him he brought it on himself, like, don’t tell me your girlfriend from Camp Know Nothing’s name, that’s just giving me ammo.”

But as Steve imitates Dustin whining, all Eddie can think is that he’s seeing something far more than just Steve delighting in riling Dustin up. That what he’s really seeing is Steve showing how deeply he cares… How he does it so easily, so inconspicuously, as if it’s just a little thing, just I heard a song and thought of you—like he can’t help it, that’s just how he loves: his mind making connections that spread out everywhere, as large and generous as his heart.

They chat leisurely for most of the setlist, Eddie gasping when someone storms the stage during The Late Great Johnny Ace.

“Shit, I forgot that happened. And you were there, man!”

They both keep quiet all the way through Bridge over Troubled Water. Eddie’s heard the song before, but now it suddenly seems like he’s hearing it for the very first time, his throat tight. Like it’s only now that he’s truly understood it.

From the silence, maybe Steve is thinking something similar. Maybe.

The room lightens with 50 Ways to Leave Your Lover.

“This one always makes me think of Robin,” Steve says, smiling as the brass kicks in, miming like she does: a little wiggle of the fingers to simulate pressing down on a trumpet’s valves.

“Thought you’re meant to be helping her find a lover, not lose one.”

Steve chuckles.

“No, I meant… like at work, if we’re arguing over who takes out the trash or whatever, I’ll call her Jack, y’know, like ‘slip out the back, Jack’? Or ‘make a new plan, Stan.’ Stuff like that.”

That’s fucking adorable, what the fuck.

Out loud, Eddie says, “Cute,” just so Steve makes that abashed sort of half-smile.

In the middle of The Boxer, Eddie briefly plays his guitar. He gets the melody down by ear—it’s not perfect by any stretch of the imagination, his fingers clumsily moving through the chords.

But Steve watches like he can’t notice any of the obvious stumbles made, gives a soft, awed, “Wow,” when Eddie is done. Then he adds, almost a whisper, “Was it… did you learn it like that back when…?”

Eddie pauses. Remembers hearing that faint whisper of My Little Town as his head nodded in spite of his fierce efforts to stay awake. Seeing the hint of a frown flicker across Steve’s face. The slimmest hope.

Learning Steve’s song had been unlike any other. All he had to go on, lying on the bed of that hotel room in the early hours of the morning, was that little snippet he had heard—just that, and perhaps faint memories he had no concrete hold of, ones that felt dreamlike: a snatch of Wayne humming along to it on the radio, when he couldn’t have been more than ten or so.

Eddie sang the words that he could, skipped the ones he didn’t know—prayed that it was enough; it had to be enough.

It had felt like time didn’t exist, just him and the song, slowly getting stitched together—even now, he can feel it under his fingertips, as if the notes are like splinters forever embedded in his skin. But not painful, never that, just an inevitable part of him.

Eddie looks into Steve’s eyes.

“No,�� he answers softly. “It was… easier, almost. Had to be.” He smiles, a little bittersweet, as Steve’s brows knit together in thought. “Couldn’t afford any mistakes, Steve.”

“Oh,” Steve says. “Sorry.”

Eddie laughs, light but disbelieving. “What the fuck for?”

Steve glances between Eddie and the guitar. “‘Cause you love playing, Eddie. And I… I don’t know, I didn’t want you to have… like, pressure? And, um… bad memories tied to it, I guess.”

Eddie shakes his head and sets the guitar aside. “Okay. You better listen close, Steve.”

Steve huffs through a smile. “Listening.”

“It’s… all of that, Steve, s’not tied to a bad memory, man, not even close. It brought you back, that’s… words can’t even fucking…” Eddie shakes his head again. “And fine, even if it had, even if I really thought after this, I can never play again, guess what? It would’ve been worth it. Fuck, I would’ve chosen it a thousand times and never regretted it. Got it?”

Steve stares at him. He blinks, and for a moment it looks like he might cry, but then he just nods, chin wobbling ever so slightly.

“Got it,” he says hoarsely.

They’ve talked right through the encore. Eddie distantly hears Paul Simon yell at the crowd, “Let's have our own fireworks!”

“Oh, yeah,” Steve says, and Eddie can see a memory spark in his eyes.

You’re so beautiful, Steve Harrington.

“I remember this. They were gonna use, uh, pyrotechnics but they weren’t allowed, so—look, see how everyone’s getting lighters out? I didn’t have one, but one of the girls gave me hers. And I remember…” Steve’s voice softens. “It was dark, and when I got the flame going, I just—I saw it out the corner of my eye. The girls, they were holding hands on the rug. And like, I knew it… it wasn’t for me to… y’know, and I didn’t say anything obviously. I didn’t really know what to… what I was feeling, right?” He chuckles self-deprecatingly. “Fucking rare for me to know anything about what I was thinking, back then. I was kind of an idiot. More than.”

Eddie says, gently, “I dunno, Steve. If you ask me, being a kid isn’t the same thing as being an idiot.”

Steve hums, tilts his hand back and forth as if to say debatable. “God, I talk a lot. Didn’t plan on… guess I just.” He shrugs. “Guess I just wanna tell you things.”

“Fine by me,” Eddie says. “I like listening.”

I always like listening to you. Tell me everything, if you want. I’ll be here.

There’s another shot of the crowd on screen, and Eddie crawls forward as he asks, “Where were you?”

“It’s too dark to see, man.”

“Try me.”

Steve rolls his eyes, chuckling. “You think I haven’t tried to find myself already? Ugh, fine, fine. We were kinda near the front, so…” He thinks, clicking his tongue, then points to just a few rows back from the stage, near the far-left of the screen. “Thereabouts.”

Eddie follows Steve’s direction, presses a fingertip there. Feels the warm static of the screen. And though he can’t really see anything, doesn’t even know if Steve is right with his guess or not, it’s like he can sense it anyway; he doesn’t need proof. Like he’s reaching back in time to a boy from five years ago, and he thinks…

Hey, Steve Harrington. The world’s gonna get… fucking crazy for you soon, but it’ll be fine in the end, trust me. You’re one of the bravest people I know. You’re gonna be okay.

During the final encore, Steve inhales like he’s about to say something, but he yawns instead—covers his mouth with the back of his hand a beat too late, like it’s caught him by surprise.

“Mm, sorry. Used to put this on when I couldn’t sleep. Guess it still works.”

Eddie looks over at him, at how his eyes are drowsy, like a child lulled by the gentle rocking of a car journey. Feels his heart give a little twist at the sight.

He ejects the tape, turns off the T.V. When he turns back, he sees that Steve has made room for him on the couch without saying anything about it.

Eddie slips over the arm of the couch, nestles in so smoothly that the couch barely sags at all, so Steve’s leg won’t be bumped; it comes so naturally now, the two of them slotting together like the easiest jigsaw puzzle in the world.

There’s a short silence, and then Eddie speaks in an undertone, just in case Steve has already fallen asleep.

“Hey, Steve?”

“Yeah?”

“Your, uh… your song. It didn’t play at that concert.”

He glances over, catches Steve’s fleeting grin, as if he’s thinking well spotted.

“Good, um, what is it Henderson says, in D&D? Good perception thingy.”

Eddie laughs in surprise. “Sure, something like that.”

Steve smiles at him. The silence stretches out, but it’s not uncomfortable, more honeyed. Slow.

And Eddie feels a warmth atop his hand: Steve’s fingers overlapping with his. For a moment, he thinks it’s just an accidental brush, but then Steve doesn’t move away.

And neither does he.

Steve sighs. Squeezes Eddie’s hand, like he’s trying to reassure him of something, but for the life of him Eddie can’t work out what it is—just knows that Steve looks almost sad, and he wishes he wouldn’t. It’s breaking his heart.

“I just… I need some more time.” There’s something in Steve’s eyes that’s so vulnerable, suddenly. “Is that… is that okay?”

“Yeah, ‘course,” Eddie says immediately, because nothing would stop him from saying so, even as his mind whirs in thought. “Don’t need to ask, Steve. Yes.”

Steve smiles, squeezes his hand again. Eddie can hear what he means this time: Thank you.

“Think I’m gonna fall asleep on you now,” Steve says with another long yawn.

“That’s fine. I’m kinda used to it,” Eddie says, letting out a huff of amusement when Steve mock glares at him through heavy eyes, fighting to keep them open.

“Shut up. Can’t help it.”

“Oh, so I am boring?”

“No. Told you b’fore. No.”

Eddie slowly reaches out—smiles when Steve’s eyes close before his hand even touches his forehead.

“What, then?” he asks quietly.

Steve hums. Sighs again. “You want the… all cards on the table kinda answer?”

Eddie breathes in. Holds it. Breathes out as silently as he can. Feels Steve’s hand still on his, fingers trailing over his knuckles, slowing as sleep approaches.

“Only if—if that’s what you want, too, then… yeah?”

Steve smiles. “Hmm, ‘kay. Here it comes.” His breathing deepens, and for a moment Eddie thinks that he’s already drifted off, but then Steve says, “I really… really like you, Eddie. You’re… safe.”

Eddie’s nose stings. Shit, he might be on the verge of crying. He bites his lip to keep himself from making a sound.

“Go to sleep, sweetheart.”

And the thing is, he knows he’s said it before. But it feels different now—feels louder, somehow, even though he’s only whispered it. Because Steve isn’t asleep, not yet. Eddie knows that he’s heard.

Steve’s finger taps softly on the back of Eddie’s hand, spaced out slowly. Three times. Like heartbeats.

“Mm. R’lax, Eddie. Don’t need to… stop yourself.”

“…Stop?” Eddie asks, voice small.

“Been called worse things, y’know?” A yawn, almost silent. Slow and sweet. “I don’t mind it.”

A minute, maybe more. And then Steve falls asleep just like that, looking so…

So peaceful.

“You’re… safe.”

Eddie’s eyelashes are wet.

Here it comes, he thinks. It’s like the tide coming in.

Here it comes.

“I love you,” Eddie murmurs.

He says it even though he knows Steve is sleeping, says it right through the inevitable aching of his heart.

[ladykailitha]

Star Child Part 14

Just two more chapters to go and this story will be done. And I want to apologize for not updating the previous chapters with links to the most recent one lately. Sorry about that. I’ll try to be better. It just gets more and more tedious the longer the fic gets.

I know I have have mentioned real people in this fic before, but I decided that for the radio show, I wasn’t going to use the real show and hosts, but it stands as an homage to the best radio show in the morning. ;)

Part 1 Part 2 Part 3 Part 4 Part 5 Part 6 Part 7 Part 8 Part 9 Part 10 Part 11 Part 12 Part 13

*

“Holy shit!” Gareth cursed as they were informed Steve had arrived. “He really does buy tickets to all our shows. I thought he might have exaggerated a bit, but nope!”

Jeff shook his head. “Your boyfriend is certainly dedicated, Eddie.”

Eddie blushed. “I wonder what he’s going to be dressed like. Steve Harrington, pop star or something more like what you would expect to see at metal concert.”

“Well,” Brian said, “I think you’re about to find out.”

Sure enough there was a knock at the door and Eddie called for them to come in.

Steve walked in with a cocky grin and a swagger in his step. All four members catcalled and whistled at him. He did a slow turn so that they could get the full affect.

Eddie was up off the couch and invading Steve’s space. “You look good enough to eat, sweetheart.”

Steve laughed. “This is what I wear to every concert. Well something like this with a hat pulled down over a pair of sunglasses.”

Before Eddie could response, Jeff was suddenly at Steve’s side. “Is that a tattoo?”

Eddie tilted his head and pulled at the side of Steve’s shirt a little. And sure enough there was their logo, the CC surrounded by lightning, right on his ribs.

“Holy fuck, baby,” Eddie said. “That’s hot. You got any other tattoos?”

Steve just grinned and wagged his eyebrows.

“Did you strike out again?” Gareth hollered. “Dude! Will the two of you just fuck already? The sexual tension between the two of you? It’s killing the rest of us.”

“Look,” Steve growled defensively, “if Creel had come after me after the concert like we thought he would, sex would have happened when we got to the hotel room.”

Eddie tilted his head again. “Actually, darlin’, I think that’s exactly what he was doing. Cockblocking us because he couldn’t stand the thought of you touching me.”

Steve pulled Eddie closer by his belt loops. “I felt the same when he went to kiss you, you know.”

“There’s a difference between stopping two people from having sex who actually care about each other,” Eddie said, “and stopping a very non-consensual kiss, sweetheart. One is predatory and gross and the other was a very welcome rescue.”

Steve smiled. “Yeah, okay.” He kissed Eddie and everyone cheered. “I’ve got go to my seat. Good luck out there. Knock ‘em dead.”

Eddie nodded and watched as Steve walked away.

“Fuck,” Brian said once he was gone. “Can you believe it’s only been a couple of weeks since Indy?”

“Less than that,” Gareth corrected. “It’s only been a week. And in that week, we have befriended the King of Pop, Eddie started dating him; met, pissed off, and arrested the biggest kingpin in Texas.”

Eddie blushed. He would have said he fell hard, fast. But that wasn’t true, was it? He always had a crush on Steve. And now they were together.

He cleared his throat. “All boys, let’s go out there and make some noise!”

They all cheered.

*

The concert was amazing and Eddie couldn’t resist kissing Steve from the stage. He knelt down and Steve half lifted himself on the stage to meet him in the middle. The crowd erupted in a roar of approval. The two of them laughed before Eddie continued the concert.

After the concert they stumbled into Steve’s hotel room, kissing and pulling at each others.

“Babe,” Eddie whined. “Please...”

Steve let out a long moan of pleasure. They were finally doing this. Eddie’s shirt came off first and then Steve’s. Their clothes were a bit unpractical when it came to swift removal, but off they came.

The tumbled into the bed again, this time with purpose and completely nude.

Hands and mouths roamed as they sought to fuse themselves together. Two massive orgasms later, they laid down side by side, panting.

Eddie propped himself on his elbow and looked down at Steve. “You know, I was trying to get into my bed that first night at Hopper’s bar, but took too much liquid courage.”

Steve smiled at him. “Yeah?”

“Yeah,” Eddie murmured. “I thought that’s what I wanted. That I wanted a one-night stand with the King of Pop, but then I got to know you and I realized that I’m glad it happened this way.”

Steve reached up to stroke his cheek. “Me too, sunshine. I’ve been in love with you for so long that I would have taken that one-night stand, if that meant that’s all I would get of you. But now I get you all the time and god if that isn’t a dream come true.”

Eddie kissed him again and they fell asleep, wrapped in each other’s arms.

*

Steve’s alarm went off and Eddie groaned.

“No, no, no...” Eddie grumbled, pulling Steve close. “I don’t want you to go.”

Steve kissed him gently. “I’ll be back with breakfast and we’ll have all morning to cuddle before I head back to LA.”

Eddie lifted his head. “You promise?”

Steve kissed him deeper. “I promise.”

Eddie reluctantly let him go and drifted back to sleep. Steve smiled fondly at down at his boyfriend before getting up to shower.

Steve kissed Eddie’s temple before slipping out his hotel room. Lucas stayed behind and Max went with him.

They piled into a waiting Uber and drove out to the radio station. They got him all mic’ed up.

“Welcome back to Demons in the Morning with Jamie, Phil, and Rita,” Jamie said cheerfully. “We have with us a surprise guest today. Steve Harrington, King of Pop, this isn’t your usual genre. What made you decide to talk on our little show?”

Steve laughed. “I actually prefer the music you guys play on your station then the stuff I do, if I’m honest.”

“I could have told them that,” Phil groused. “Hell, anyone who watched that Love Loud concert could tell you at least have a passing familiarity with The Struts.”

Steve laughed again. “That was so much fun to arrange and preform, you have no idea.”

“So tell us about your favorites and influences,” Rita said.

Steve talked about Imagine Dragons, and Linkin Park and other bands that shaped his music. His real music, not the shit he had been putting out since he was seventeen.

“When you came out yesterday,” Phil said, “you said some pretty messed up crap about your record label and your parents, can you talk more about that?”

Steve gulped but nodded. “Yeah, we like to think that Hollywood and the music industry as progressive, but its really, really not. A lot of LGBTQ+ artists are still being harassed by not only the masses but managers, agents, record labels all trying to keep things as heterosexual as possible.”

“That must have been hard,” Rita said. “Did you know about the video your publicist put out?”

Steve hummed. “Yeah, I’m the one that told her to. I wanted people to get a taste of the nightmare I had been living my whole life.”

“So why now?” Phil asked.

“Because it’s not talked about enough,” Steve said. “We go through these rashes of exposing the seedy underbelly of things. Pageant shows, MeToo, Brittany Spears. Which that was almost me, by the way.”

“You were almost locked into a conservatorship?” Rita asked.

Steve nodded. “Yeah, I mean after they tried conversion therapy.”  

“They did what?!” Jamie yelled. “I thought that was illegal.”

Steve pursed his lips. “Not everywhere, unfortunately. But it’s where I met my best friend and current manager, so I guess it turned out okay.”

“And so you’re trying to bring light on a dark subject of what exactly?” Phil asked.

“Blackmailing artists so they don’t come out as anything other than straight,” Steve said somberly. “In my youth I was promiscuous, bedding anyone and everyone who said yes. And while my parents fought to keep me under their thumb, the label was smarter. They paid to have all the men I’d slept with go away and then held that over my head.”

“Which if it had come out years ago would have ruined your career,” Rita said, “because you had built your brand on the boy next door.”

“Exactly,” Steve replied.

“So what changed?” Jamie asked. “Why decide to come out as bisexual with a slutty past now?”

“Because I’m older,” Steve said. “If it goes to hell and I don’t make another album for the rest of my life. I can live quite comfortably off what I have done. I want to be myself for once in my life and the only people I want to have a say in that process is the people closest to me.”

“And does that include Corroded Coffin frontman, Eddie Munson?” Phil asked. “We seen the pictures of you last night at the concert, hell we saw the absolute chemistry between you at Love Loud.”

Steve laughed. “Yeah. He’s a part of it. And if you’ve seen the video, you know we could have gotten together sooner. But yeah, of course. He’s very important to the process of being who I want to be.”

“So I know you can’t talk about the litigation ongoing with your label but what are your plans for the future?” Jamie asked.

Steve huffed out a laugh. “Even before this blew up, I was shopping around other labels. I want to do alt rock. And my current label tended toward pop. So yeah.”

“So will we being hearing more of you on this station?” Rita asked.

“That’s the hope, yeah,” Steve said.

They started talking about the upcoming album and his process. Then it was time for Steve go. He signed off and they went to commercial.

“Thank you for having me,” Steve said as he put away the sound gear.

“No, thank you for choosing us to talk about your coming out,” Rita said.

“I was in town,” Steve said with a giggle. “And I figured this was best place for it. As far as inclusivity was concerned.”

“Hell yeah,” Jamie growled. “Next time you’re in town, bring that boyfriend of yours. He keeps turning us down.”

Steve laughed. “He isn’t a morning person. But I’ll see what I can do.”

***

Part 15  Part 16

Tag List:

@bejeweledbaby @eboyawstenn @moonshadows-13 @ohlook-afrog @goodolefashionedloverboi @linkydinky06 @livelaughlexa @spectrum-spectre @cutepumpkin4 @whatthemeepever @gleek4twd @anything-thats-rock-and-roll @novelnovella @celtrose-ish @artiststarme @plasticcrotches  @failedstarsandgoldenclouds @anaibis @nelotegreitic @steddieassheg0es @abstractnaturaldisaster @scheodingers-muppet @tiny-enthusiast @yes-im-your-mom @thegingerrapunzel @milf-harrington @avacrebs @gregre369 @raisedbylibrarians @reverseteehee @lillys-weird-world @deadlydodos @runyousillydetective @justrandomfandomstm @piebook67 @clumsywriter @donttouchmycarrots @fiore-della-valle @idkareallyreallygoodname  @idontgetpaidenoughforthisshit @imfinereallyy @ravenpainter @ellietheasexylibrarian @maya-custodios-dionach @child-of-cthulhu @estrellami-1 @lillithhellfire @nerdsconquerall @space-invading-pigeon @localgaydisaster @bookbinderbitch

[medusapelagia]

Running From The Daylight - Part 1

Part 1 - (coming soon Part 2, Part 3, Part 4, Part 5, Part 6, Part 7, Part 8, Part 9, Part 10, Part 11, Part 12, Part 13, Part 14, Part 15)

This is going to be a long fic with A LOT of whump to fill every @whumpuary prompt, so it's obviously an exaggeration and, even if I did some research, I decided to use only things that were useful to me, so imagination and suspension of disbelief are fundamental! 😂 There will be A LOT of inaccuracies about almost everything! You are warned!

Rating: Mature Relationship: Steve Harrington/Eddie Munson Prompt: Snow WT: none Words: 1532

Eddie sighs, looking at the white blanket around the chalet that Steve booked for their first holiday together. The landscape is incredible, the chalet warm and comfortable but Eddie misses the chaos that always seems to surround him: the only sound in that stupid chalet is the crackling open fire, which is nice, don’t get him wrong, but after two days of white snow and crackling fireplace he is definitely bored to dead.

Steve has brought snowshoes and ski suits, but Eddie is not going for a walk in the mountain's freezing air, so they resolved to stay in the chalet and spend their time together, which is great! They never have time to be together but now Eddie is really bored out of his mind. The stupid television gets only a couple of local channels that are always giving news about the small village on the slope of the mount or teleshopping and even their stupid phones have almost no signal and they have to stay near the bathroom window if they want to make a call because that’s the only place in the chalet with at least a little bit of signal.

Steve, on the other side, seems to have found the perfect life for him: he goes out to make firewood, cooks super tasty dinners and fucks his boyfriend on the cow skin rug, which Eddie finds a little bit too much when they have a very comfortable bed but he endures it.

A week.

Steve booked the stupid chalet for an entire week, and Eddie has already read all the books he brought with him and he is so fucking ready to go home, but he knows that Steve worked hard to organize everything, so he sighs for the umpteenth time, feeling like a princess in a high tower, waiting for the Saturday to come and bring him back to Hawkins.

The only perk of his day is seeing Steve getting back from cutting firewood, cheeks colored by the cold and the effort, eyes shining with pride and joy.

“I think we will be good for the next few days.” Steve tells him, dragging some firewood inside, Eddie is pretty sure that they will be good for months but he is not willing to spend more time in that godforsaken place so he nods and kisses Steve on his freezing lips.

“You are freezing. What could I do to make you warm?” Eddie asks, getting closer to the chestnut boy who chuckles “I’m all sweaty, I need a shower.”

“We can shower later. Together.”

***

Ok, maybe Eddie hates the chalet, but cuddling in front of the fireplace, looking at Steve in the warm light is not so bad. He looks so relaxed and comfortable that maybe the metalhead could endure a few more days of boredom just for him. Steve gets closer, rubbing his nose on Eddie's cheek before biting it.

"I want to eat you."

"You just did." Eddie chuckles, thinking about Steve's hot tongue on the most sensible part of his body.

"I want to eat you whole and keep you with me, forever."

"I don't know why but this sounds both terrifying and romantic at the same time. Maybe I'm into murderers." Eddie comments, carding his fingers in Steve's wet hair "We should dry ourselves."

"Don't want to. Wanna stay here on the carpet cuddling with you."

"You'll get sick if you don't dry your hair. Or even worse, you'll get a migraine." Eddie scolds him with a smile.

Steve groans something that sounds pretty close to spoilsport, but in the end, he gets up and they get back to the bathroom: Eddie sits on the toilet while Steve dries his hair. He tried to help him a couple of times but the results were far from good so now they have resolved that Eddie washes Steve's hair and Steve's dries Eddie's curl, is their little ritual: Eddie shakes his head like a wet dog and tries to run away from Steve's comb and when finally Steve gets him Eddie licks Steve's face like a happy puppy while the younger boy complains that he is gross but secretly loves it.

Not today. Today Eddie is sitting on the toilet, like a good boy, watching Steve do his magic trick with hairdryer and hairspray and then get closer to him, combing Eddie's hair with his fingers while gently blowing some not-too-hot air and scratching Eddie's scalp.

"You should do this as a job. You are really good at it." Eddie sighs, while Steve keeps playing with his hair.

"My parents will be elated to know that their fag son should be a hairdresser." he snorts.

"Fuck them. What are they going to do? Be even more disappointed in you?" Eddie asks, his eyes closed, still lost in the pleasurable feelings of having Steve take care of him, when Steve's fingers stop abruptly. Fuck. He opens his eyes, finding Steve avoiding his stare "Shit, Steve, I'm sorry, I didn't mean it."

"No, you are right." The chestnut boy replies, while he keeps drying Eddie's hair "They were always disappointed in me, why not add some more disappointment, right?"

Eddie would like to punch himself in the face, why can't he keep his mouth shut?

"Steve..."

"I'm good."

"No, you are not and I feel like shit because we were having a nice time and I ruined it." Eddie sighs, hiding his face in Steve's t-shirt.

"You didn't ruin anything. You always make everything better." Steve whispers in his hair, kissing the crown of Eddie's head while holding him close and Eddie gets lost in the comforting warmth of Steve's chest and in the stable rhythm of his heartbeat.

"I'm sorry. I don't know why I said that."

"You weren't wrong." Steve repeats, making soothing movements on Eddie's back and he feels even more guilty.

"You know what? Tomorrow we are going for a walk in the snow, how does it sound?" Eddie asks, lifting his head from his cozy hiding place.

"You hate the cold and every kind of physical activity that is not sex. You told me these exact words just yesterday."

"Yesterday I was another person, today I'm a moron who made his boyfriend sad and is trying really hard to cheer him up. What do you say?"

"You don't have to." Steve replies, still drying Eddie's hair "I know you hate the chalet."

"I don't hate the chalet, I might not like the cold, that's true, but I can endure a little walk with my boyfriend if he promises me we will do a snowman after!"

"A snowman?"

Eddie nods, happily "Yeah. A snowman with a carrot as a nose and a stupid hat."

Steve smiles sweetly at him "I think that can be arranged. You know, there are some beautiful places to see here, I made a little map with some really incredible mountain paths. But we have to wake up pretty soon if we want to take advantage of the natural light."

The days at the chalet are shorter than in town, as soon as the sun starts to go down the mountains cover it and it starts to freeze.

"Ok, I swear I'll get up as soon as the alarm goes off, ok?"

***

Maybe Eddie accidentally postponed the alarm a couple of times, ok? But he is still sipping his coffee, wearing the warmest clothes that he owns, already wearing his ski pants and ready to wear his ski jacket before leaving the chalet, while Steve has already made some sandwiches with a thermos of tea, not coffee for Eddie's displeasure, and took some water and whatever they might need.

"We are not going to Mount Doom, are we?" Eddie asks, crunching a cinnamon cookie Steve made the night before.

"When you travel it is always better to be over-prepared." Steve says, checking for the third time if they have everything they might need. They haven't traveled a lot, but every time they have gone on holiday somewhere Eddie has just put a few clothes in a bag, while Steve made the itinerary, booked the hotels, and took care of everything. It's so nice to see him so involved in his preparation, sometimes Eddie mocks him and tells him that he takes everything too seriously, but he loves seeing Steve so absorbed.

"Ok, we should have everything. Have you finished breakfast?"

Eddie nods, takes his cup toward the kitchen, and comes back to the living room; Steve is already wearing his ski pants, and his jacket is on the couch while he helps Eddie get into his ski suit "I feel like a Puft marshmallow man." Eddie complains while Steve closes the last button of his jacket.

"You will be glad you are well covered when we get to the glacier." Steve smirks.

"To the glacier? Are you kidding? Tell me that you are kidding! Steve! Steve!" Eddie calls, following his boyfriend and then they hear a rumbling that gets louder and louder. Eddie goes toward the kitchen to look outside the window but Steve grabs him and drags him away, after that all Eddie can hear it's the static.

[zoeykallus]

Rex – In Love And War 15 – Healing And Foolish Ideas

Warnings: Slightly Angsty/Slightly Suggestive/Slightly Humorous

Rex x Fem!Reader FF

__________________

You get to observe the amusing mix that is Rex, Wolffe and Gregor. The always grumpy Wolffe, the always amused Gregor and your beloved Rex combined are an interesting little group to travel and work with. Aside from healing your rips, you can't do much right now though and you are not very patient.

__________________

What Happened Before

In Love And War

Part 2 -Noises In The Dark

Part 3 - Sinful Dreams

Part 4 - Mesh'la

Part 5 - Old Friends

Part 6 - Unspoken Things

Part 7 - Lies And Other Things About Love

Part 8 - Guilt And Forgiveness

Part 9 – Love At First Sight

Part 10 – Mine At Last

Part 11 - Unpleasant Surprises

Part 12 - Moving On

Part 13 - Hunted

Part 14 - On The Run

15 – Healing And Foolish Ideas

The baccta that Rex, Gregor and Wolffe got was not just for your benefit. On the mission when they got the baccta, Gregor took two grazes, but he just chuckled at your shocked concern. "Don't worry, it's half bad and was worth the result. You'll be completely healed very soon," he said lightly as you lay in your baccta bath and Wolffe tended to his wounds. You shook your head with a sigh. "You're crazy, all of you. But I'm very grateful." "Of course we're crazy," Gregor said as a matter of course with an innocent smile. Rex who entered the room with raised eyebrows said dryly, " Please only speak for yourself" Gregor chuckled and said, "You're the worst of the lot." Rex rolled his eyes and shook his head in amusement. His path led him directly to the baccta tub, where you lay dressed in special medical underwear. He smiled at you and gently stroked your cheek with a finger. "So, how are you doing? Can you feel the healing process yet?" You frowned and showed him a brave smile. "Well, if you mean that unbearable tingling and pulling in my ribs and pleura, then yes, I can feel the process very clearly." Rex assured you, "It will pass, tonight it won't bother you anymore". You sighed, "Okay, I'll take your word for it" Rex kissed your forehead and then turned and said, "Gregor went all out, we were about to give up and pull out, but he insisted we get the Baccta for you" "So that's how he got hurt," you said worriedly.

Gregor said from the background, "Don't worry, Rex is exaggerating. It wasn't half as dangerous as he acts, it's just a scratch." Wolffe grumbled, "It's a bit more than a crater, but it will heal quickly. Still, you are an idiot, brother, you could have been killed" "But I'm still alive," Gregor chuckled, unimpressed. Wolffe shook his head with a sigh and rolled his eyes. Rex grinned at you. "Thanks, guys," you said gratefully and also touched. "Any time," Wolffe and Gregor said in unison.

Rex was right, after a few hours, the tingling in your ribs subsided and you felt much better, could move better. "When can I get out of here?" you asked Wolffe, who examined you carefully. Rex and Gregor were busy in the engine room. "About two more hours, then you should be as good as new. You should still take it easy for the next two or three days." You smiled and asked, "Why do I get the feeling you're much more careful with me than you are with any other patient?" Wolffe raised his eyebrows in amusement. "I'm not really a medic, and the few situations in which I've been forced to act as one, I've always had one of my brothers in front of me, seasoned soldiers. You seem much more fragile in comparison to me." "Fragile," you repeated the word with a wry smile. Wolffe shrugged his shoulders, "you know what I mean" "I think so" Suddenly a jolt went through the shuttle, some of the baccta sloshed out of the tub and onto Wolffe's feet. He grumbled a curse and said, "You stay put, I'm going to see what these idiots are up to" "But..." Wolffe's gaze was so sharp that you instantly fell silent. "You stay right there," he growled. "Okay..." you said meekly and watched him leave the room. You lay there in your tub, restless, impatient. Another jolt went through the ship, and again some baccta sloshed out of the tub onto the floor. Your eyes were fixed on the entrance to the infirmary, impatiently waiting for one of the guys to come back. "Guys?"

Another jolt that shook the shuttle made your patience snap, you had to know what was going on. Cautiously and awkwardly, you climbed out of the tub. You almost slipped on the wet floor, but caught yourself just in time. Your ribs hurt nowhere near as much, but there was still a slight tug. You reached for a bathrobe and slipped it on. Carefully, you made your way barefoot in your robe, still wet from the baccta, to the engine room. Before you reached it, you heard the voices of the men. Wolffe sounded annoyed as he almost always did, Rex stoic and matter-of-fact, and Gregor completely nonchalant as usual. When you reached the entrance to the engine room, you saw the men standing around one of the engines, the hyperspace drive, if you were not mistaken. "Do we have a problem?" All three heads wheeled around to face you. All three were complaining about you getting out of the tub at the same time, you couldn't fully understand any of their sentences because they were all talking over each other, so you waited until they noticed. Rex glanced at his brothers in turn, annoyed, whereupon the two fell silent. Finally, he approached, his gaze stern, his brow furrowed critically. "Barefoot and wet? Are you serious?" he grumbled, "Aside from the fact that you could slip and seriously hurt yourself, do you want to get sick?" "Of course not, but that shaking made me nervous, I wanted to check if everything was alright."

Rex sighed and led you back to the infirmary, helped you back into the tub and finally said, "The hyperdrive just had a little hiccup. The fuel we bought on the black market is contaminated, or rather stretched, the engine doesn't like that, but it's not so bad. We'll change it at the next opportunity" "I see," you said softly. He kissed your forehead again and said, "I have to get back to the engine room now, sweetie. I'm counting on you to be good and stay in your bath." You said pouting, "Tonight I want to sleep in a bunk with you". Rex smirked. "That should be doable. In about an hour and a half you'll be allowed out of the tub, then you can freshen up, and later we'll cuddle up in a bunk" You looked at him searchingly. "Promise?" "Promise."

Rex looked at you in surprise to see you already in the bunk when he finally finished in the engine room. "So you got out of the tub alone?" You said reprovingly, "I waited the time as planned, but none of you came, so I got out myself, I didn't want to wait any longer. I'm feeling much better already." Rex smiled apologetically and said, "Sorry beautiful, we were quite stressed in the engine room" "That's alright, go take a shower now, I need you here" you said with a grin. Rex raised his eyebrows, amused as well as reproving. He glanced briefly over his shoulder to make sure his brothers were out of earshot. "Honey, we can't get up close and personal yet." You let yourself fall back into the sheets with a heavy sigh and immediately felt why, it wasn't a real pain but an uncomfortable throbbing that spread through your ribs at that movement. Pouting, you said, "But I'm so hungry for you". Rex smirked, leaning over you briefly to kiss you, and you immediately intertwined your hands in his neck, keeping him with you. "Believe me, I'm hornier than I ever want to admit, but we have to be reasonable" he said, clearing his throat. You said, wrinkling your nose, "Being reasonable is stupid". Rex laughed softly, kissing you again, and the warmth of your lips sent heat shooting to his loins. He had to force himself to pull back, pull your hands from his neck and straighten up. "Maybe we should sleep separately tonight after all," he said thoughtfully. You widened your eyes and said, protesting, "No! No way!" Rex scratched the back of his head and laughed softly, "That you want me so much pleases me more than I can say, but I don't think we can keep our hands off each other when we're in the same bed." You put on your most innocent look and said, "I promise I'll just cuddle." Rex smirked and said amused, "You're lying. And even if you weren't, who says I can hold back?" "But you promised!" You argued back and forth for a while longer, but Rex got his way, as he almost always did. You poutingly pulled the blanket up to your chin and watched him disappear in the direction of the refresher.

Ko-Fi (If you feel like giving me some coffee)

@ttzamara

@chxpsi

@andyoufollowyourheart

@the-sith-in-the-sky-with-diamond

@brynhildrmimi

@nunanuggets

@clone-whore-99

@misogirl828

@tech-deck @rexandechosandwich

@flyingkangaroo

@stardusthuntress

@ladykatakuri

@graciexmarvel

@arctrooper69

@agenteliix

@puppetswithteeth

@punkpirate82

@greaser-wolf

@hated-by-me

@malicemercy

@echos-girlfriend

@jediknightjana

[daitranscripts]

Wicked Eyes and Wicked Hearts Conversations

Josephine

Wicked Eyes and Wicked Hearts Masterpost

The PC approaches Josephine in the ballroom.

Yvette: Josephine! Oh Josephine, is this [them]?

Josephine: (Sighs.) Inquisitor, please allow me to present to you my younger sister, Yvette Gabriella Montilyet.

Dialogue options:

General: A pleasure. [1]

General: Another Lady Montilyet? [2]

General: Hello. [3]

1 - General: A pleasure. PC: Delighted to meet you, Lady Montilyet. [4]

2 - General: Another Lady Montilyet? PC: There can never be too many Lady Montilyets in Thedas, can there? [4]

3 - General: Hello. PC: Greetings, my lady. [4]

4 - Scene continues.

Yvette: (Giggles.) Inquisitor, I’ve heard so much about you! But not as much as I want. Josephine writes, but she never tells me anything.

Choice dependent dialogue:

Romanced Josephine [5]

Sided Mages [6]

Sided templars [7]

5 - Romanced Josephine Yvette: Is it true you and Josephine are going to elope and move to the Anderfels and join the Grey Wardens and fight darkspawn?

Josephine: Yvette!

Yvette: I want to know!

Dialogue options:

General: I’m afraid you’re mistaken. [8]

General: Absolutely [9]

General: Excuse me? [10]

8 - General: I’m afraid you’re mistaken. PC: Rumors exaggerate many things, Lady Yvette. Yvette: It sounded so romantic. [17]

9 - General: Absolutely. PC: I already packed out bags, didn’t I, darling? Yvette: I knew it! Josephine: Inquisitor, please give her no more ammunition, I beg you. [17]

10 - General: Excuse me? PC: What are you talking about? Of course not! Yvette: It sounded so romantic. [17]

6 - Sided Mages Yvette: Is it true rebel mages in Redcliffe were performing blood rites and orgies before you stopped them?

Josephine: Where did you hear such nonsense?

Yvette: Everyone in Antiva says so! Is it true?

Dialogue options:

General: I’m afraid not. [11]

General: Sure, why not. [12]

General: Not at all. [13]

11 - General: I’m afraid not. PC: Those stories are little more than wistful thing, my lady. Yvette: Oh. How dull Redcliffe must have been, then. [17]

12 - General: Sure, why not. PC: Of course. Every word. Especially the parts where everyone was nude. Yvette: I knew it! Josephine: (Groans.)

13 - General: Not at all. PC: Of course not. How do people come up with these ideas? Yvette: Oh. How dull Redcliffe must have been, then. [17]

7 - Sided templars Yvette: Is it true you found the red templars sacrificing heretics and drinking blood from mages’ veins?

Josephine: Yvette!

Yvette: Everyone in Antiva is saying so! Is it true?

General: It’s all exaggerated. [14]

General: Every bit of it. [15]

General: That’s preposterous. [16]

14 - General: It’s all exaggerated. PC: There was dark magic there, yes, but none of it so… visceral. Yvette: Oh. Did you check everywhere? Josephine: That’s quite enough Yvette. Really. [17]

15 - General: Every bit of it. PC: Oh, it was awful. Mage bones everywhere. Practically a carpet of skulls over a river of blood. Yvette: Eeek! How awful! Josephine: (Sighs wearily.) [17]

16 - General: That’s preposterous. PC: That’s not what happened at Therinfal Redoubt. Yvette: Oh. Did you check everywhere? Josephine: That’s quite enough Yvette. Really. [17]

17 - Scene continues.

18 - Dialogue options:

Investigate (after dance with Florianne): Should we support Briala? [19]

Investigate: Who would you support here? [20]

Investigate: Tell me about yourself. [21]

Investigate: How’s the evening? [22]

Investigate: Any tales about Josephine? [23]

General: Goodbye. [24]

19 - Investigate: Should we support Briala? PC: What do you think of helping Briala take control? Josephine: (Burst of laughter.) Oh. Oh, you were… serious. I cannot recommend it.  Whatever Briala offers, she—of anyone here—has the least reason to stay loyal to us. [Back to 18]

20 - Investigate: Who would you support here? PC: Which power should the Inquisition throw its weight behind? Josephine: Celene has held the throne successfully for years. I see no profit in ousting her. Gaspard has run military campaigns but never a kingdom. His transition would be… let us say “chaotic.” [Back to 18]

21 - Investigate: Tell me about yourself. PC: Tell me about yourself, Lady Yvette. This is the first time I’ve encountered any of Josephine’s family. Yvette: She would forget to mention the artists. I’ve been studying painting under Antiva’s royal tutors. You should be proud, Josie. I’m going to be exhibiting my work next season in the city’s big salon. Josephine: Have you actually say down and finished a painting yet? Yvette: I must wait for my inspiration! Josephine: And I must wait for your tutor’s bills. [Back to 18]  

22 - Investigate: How’s the evening? PC: Enjoying the ball? Josephine: I see many— Yvette: The dancing is so dull, Your Worship, but the empress’s gallery is magnificent! Josephine: Yvette… Yvette: Sorry Josie.

Dialogue options:

Special: Please continue, Josephine. [25]

[Back to 18]

25 - Special: Please continue, Josephine. PC: Go on, Josephine. Josephine: Half Val Royeaux must be empty, so many of the empire’s finest are in attendance. They’ve noticed the empress paying you special attention, but they don’t quite know how to take advantage of it yet. This uncertainty won’t last long, I’m afraid. [Back to 18]

23 - Investigate: Any tales about Josephine? PC: This may be my only chance to hear about when Josephine was a girl. Yvette: Oh, yes! Has she told you about when she was ten and— Josephine: Yvette. Stop. Yvette: Fine. What about when we were climbing the cliffs by the— Josephine: No. Yvette: She once told the Duke of— Josephine: Absolutely not. Yvette: Hrmph. She still plays with her doll collection when no one’s looking! Josephine: Yvette! That’s… absurd. Absolutely preposterous! Yvette: (Snickers.)

24 - General: Goodbye. PC: I’ll see you later. Yvette: Another time!

—

Ambient dialogue between Josephine and Yvette:

Josephine: Tell me, Yvette, how are Mama and Papa? Are they in good health? Do they want for anything? Yvette: Papa’s perfectly happy in the studio. Mother is the same as always. Josephine: Meaning she’s after you to do more work. Yvette: You always take her side! Josephine: I don’t “take her side.” I happen to think, as she does, you might attend to more of the estate’s duties. Also, stop slouching.

Yvette: Are you happy to see me at all, Josie? Josephine: It may not have wise to attend this particular engagement, Yvette. Yvette: I didn’t want to come. Mother made me. At least Halamshiral has such pretty gardens. They’re so darling, I took out my parchment! Josephine: Not another book of poetry? Yvette: (Giggles.)

Yvette: I’ve an idea, Josephine. You should invite all the family to Skyhold for the summer! Josephine: You’d be bored the second you stepped past the gates! Skyhold is a fortified castle, not a holiday resort. Yvette: You don’t miss us? Josephine: Of course I do, Yvette. There’s just so much work undone. Yvette: You always put these tasks ahead of us. Josephine: Well… I’ll see if I can come home for your gallery showing. How does that sound? Yvette: Ph, that would be so nice! Do you promise? Josephine: Yes, I promise. Yvette: Oh, wonderful!

[fillycolt]

15 mutuals 15 questions

thank you for tagging me @skelkankaos :3 :3 :3

1. Are you named after anyone? ... unfortunately yes. queen elizabeth. my mum's family has been naming their kids that way for like 3 generations and the name aside from that has a lot of importance to me so i kept it

2. When was the last time you cried? i don't know, probably last week?

3. Do you have kids? no but i consider my pets my children (not in the annoying "i know what parenthood is like! i have a dog" thing but bc i love them very very much and i feel strongly like a mum to them etc)

4. Do you use sarcasm a lot? not super i think?? i mostly tag along if someone uses sarcasm but i sometimes do myself. i prefer when sarcasm is either obvious in that it's suuuuper clearly exaggerated or when it's just completely nonsensical and probably only funny to me so i dont do it much organically

5. What sports do you play/have played? i never like, got on a team for anything, or did anything outside of gym glass, but i liked badminton. oh and in grade 4 i went to my school district's like cross country running thingy and i got in 101st place. one of the only non seizure/basically toxic shock syndrome related times i've fainted was next year's tryouts when it was too hot with a jacket but too cold without and i ran with a jacket on. oh and um i've played bloodbowl a couple times but also was never in a league but like i was gonna be

6. What’s the first thing you notice about people? their fashion probably

7. What’s your eye color? green and orange :3

8. Scary movies or happy endings? of the two i guess scary movies

9. Any special talents? i'm like, really good at controlling my experiences while high. i can write pretty good stories and shit. i can make any outfit work

10. Where were you born? ottawa

11. What are your hobbies? writing, making weird art, making and listening to music, playing video games, collecting my Collections

12. Do you have pets? I DO i love to talk about them. lentug is my beautiful snake daughter, she is a ball python, she is about a year old now but i celebrate my pets' birthdays as the day i got them and it hasnt been that long yet. shes so sweet and loves getting water poured on her and shes SUCH a good eater. then theres gawi, my precious guinea pig daughter who is a sweet little angel baby with me and licks instead of biting and has Big Feelings and Issues and Particularities but she is a bully to the others just a little bit. then dr pepper, who just turned a year old recently also and is a weird little freak of a guinea pig. she's a himalayan rex so she's albino, colorpoint, and has weird curly/frizzy fur and she bites to maim and she's SO fucking tiny even though she was the biggest of the litter and from two of the biggest guinea pig breeds. then there's my new little beasts: bobo, my old lady guinea pig who is all rumpled and so sweet and soft and loves her cuddly houses, and caramel, my even weirder freak naked beast of a guinea pig, whose ears slap when she shakes her head.

13. How tall are you? 5′5 since i was 11 or 12 lol

14. Favorite subject in school? english til high school then nothing bc i hated being there

15. Dream job? if i could publish my books and get like crazy famous without having to jeopardize my odsp til i'm solidly able to keep myself afloat for the indefinite future/at least longer than a few months so i can get back on odsp if needed... and i can use my money to travel across north america to write about weird little towns in different places... and to other places in the world to try all sorts of regional fruits and vegetables and snacks and do youtube videos about them. yeah that's it

tagging @thing2taste @1011100010 @shadowtouched @indicabutch @pranaferox444 @unseelie @rcris123 @xxm0nstrrrk1dxx @groblinboy @agatke @mothernatureslonelyson @wizardkins @07170 @forestsecretshack @solar-satan

[crossfandomskylines]

In the Space Between: Chapter 7

Other Chapters:

Chapter 1 I Chapter 2 I Chapter 3 I Chapter 4 I Chapter 5 I

Chapter 6 I Chapter 7 I Chapter 8 I Chapter 9 I Chapter 10

Chapter 11 I Chapter 12 I Chapter 13 I Chapter 14 I Chapter 15

Chapter 16 I Chapter 17 I Chapter 18 I Chapter 19 I Chapter 20

Pairing: Glen Powell x OC

Summary: Glen is getting ready to head to Austin for some time with his family, but wants to spend one last evening with Gabby. They settle in at his place, ordering takeout, and cuddling up on the couch. Then he invites Gabby to spend the night, enjoying one last evening together.

Word Count: 5.6k

Warnings: 18+ Minors DNI. Mentions of Alcohol, SMUT (Nudity, Missionary Position it's their first time...it may get more kinky later, I don't know yet. But there's nothing wrong with a little vanilla.)

A/N: So after the last chapter I've been writing this one basically non-stop. Normally I hit bumps along the way which is why it's usually 5-7 days between chapters. But I wrote this one in like two and didn't want to wait to post, so I hope you enjoy it! Please let me know your thoughts with Hearts, Comments, and Reblogs!

Tag List: @djs8891 @queenslandlover-93 @teacupsandtopgun @loveatfirsttornado

The days following their first breakfast together settled into a comfortable rhythm, as though Glen and Gabby had been a part of each other’s lives for much longer than a few weeks. They fell into an easy balance of spending time together while keeping up with their individual responsibilities. Some nights were spent at Gabby’s cozy apartment, the two of them cooking simple meals side by side, the radio playing softly in the background as they laughed about Glen’s inability to chop onions without tearing up. Other nights were at Glen’s place, where they sprawled on his couch, eating takeout straight from the containers and watching movies they only half-paid attention to, too absorbed in their conversation to care about the plot.

When they weren’t together, they stayed in touch. Gabby found herself smiling at the occasional texts Glen sent throughout the day—sometimes a photo of his dog napping in a patch of sunlight, other times a joke or comment about the podcast recording he’d just finished. In return, she sent him snapshots of her coffee-fueled study sessions, complete with exaggerated captions about the “thrilling life of a student.” It wasn’t overbearing or constant, just enough to remind them both that the other was thinking of them.

Despite the ease of their time together, neither pushed to define what was happening between them. They hadn’t taken things public—Glen’s fame adding a layer of complexity neither of them was eager to rush into—but there was an unspoken understanding that, for now, they were simply enjoying the moments they had. Each interaction felt natural, like the slow unfolding of something neither of them had expected but both were beginning to treasure.

By the end of Glen’s first week off, the lines between his world and Gabby’s had started to blur in small, significant ways. It wasn’t just that his spare toothbrush had found a spot in her bathroom or that his favorite blanket had been claimed as hers during their movie nights. It was the way they talked, the way they moved around each other, the way they found themselves looking forward to the next time without ever having to say it.

The hum of Gabby’s car engine filled the silence as she pulled into her apartment parking lot, her mind still replaying the events of her busy day. She was already planning on collapsing onto the couch with a bowl of cereal when her phone buzzed on the passenger seat. Picking it up, she smiled as Glen’s name lit up the screen.

Glen: Hey, you free tonight?

The message was simple, but she could practically hear his voice in her head, that mix of charm and warmth that made her stomach flip every time. She bit her lip, typing out a quick reply.

Gabby: I think I can squeeze you into my schedule 😉

His response was almost instant.

Glen: Good, because I was hoping to steal you for the evening. Come over?

She laughed softly, the exhaustion from her day momentarily forgotten.

Gabby: What’s the occasion?

A few dots appeared on the screen as he typed.

Glen: You. Me. One last quiet night before I head to Austin. No agenda, just us.

Gabby’s heart fluttered at the sincerity in his words. It was rare for someone to make her feel this... wanted. Not in a grand, sweeping way, but in the quiet, meaningful moments that reminded her how much she liked having him in her life.

Gabby: I’m on my way.

Sliding her phone back into her bag, she took a deep breath and shifted the car back into drive. A quiet night with Glen sounded like exactly what she needed.

Gabby pulled up to Glen’s house, the low glow of the porch light illuminating the familiar front door. Her heart skipped a beat as she grabbed her bag from the passenger seat and made her way up the steps. Before she could even knock, the door swung open, and Brisket came barreling toward her, tail wagging furiously.

“Hey, buddy!” Gabby crouched down, laughing as the dog nudged his head against her hands, soaking up all the attention she was more than happy to give. “Were you waiting for me, huh? Such a good boy!”

Glen leaned against the doorframe, arms crossed, a teasing smirk on his face. “Nice to see you too, babe,” he drawled, feigning offense.

Gabby glanced up at him, still scratching behind Brisket’s ears, her eyes sparkling with amusement. “Oh, sorry. Didn’t see you there.” She stood up, brushing her hands off on her jeans as she stepped closer to him.

Glen chuckled, shaking his head. “Uh-huh. Sure.”

Before he could say anything else, Gabby slipped her arms around his waist, tilting her head up to look at him. “Hi.”

His teasing expression softened as he leaned down, wrapping his arms around her shoulders and pulling her closer. “Hi,” he murmured back, his voice warm and low.

He dipped his head, their lips meeting in a slow, unhurried kiss, the kind that made the world outside his front door disappear. Brisket let out a little huff, circling at their feet as if to remind them he was still there. Gabby pulled back slightly, smiling against Glen’s lips.

“Looks like someone’s jealous,” she whispered.

Glen glanced down at the dog, who was now pawing at Gabby’s leg, clearly not done being the center of attention. 

“Can you blame him?” Glen asked, his lips quirking into a grin.

Gabby laughed, giving Brisket one last pat before Glen stepped aside to let her in. 

“Come on,” he said, resting a hand lightly on her back as they walked into the house. “I’ve got wine chilling and takeout on the way. Thought we could keep it low-key tonight.”

“Sounds perfect,” Gabby replied, feeling her shoulders relax as she slipped off her shoes.

The doorbell rang, cutting through their conversation. Brisket barked once, trotting toward the door, his tail wagging.

“That’ll be the food,” Glen said, brushing a hand against Gabby’s arm as he passed her.

He returned a moment later, balancing a stack of takeout containers in one hand while shutting the door with the other. Gabby watched as he brought the bags to the kitchen counter and began unpacking them, the familiar aroma of Thai food filling the room.

“What do I owe you?” she asked, stepping closer to the counter.

Glen glanced at her over his shoulder, his brows furrowing slightly as if the question surprised him. “Nothing. Don’t worry about it.”

“Glen,” she said, folding her arms. “I mean it. I don’t want you—or me, for that matter—feeling like I’m taking advantage of you.”

He paused, turning to look at her fully. “What are you talking about?”

“You’ve paid for everything so far,” she said, motioning to the takeout. “Dinner on our first date, every DoorDash order, everything. I don’t want it to seem like I’m just… letting you take care of everything.”

Glen leaned back against the counter, crossing his arms as he considered her words. “You buy groceries when we cook at your place,” he pointed out.

Gabby tilted her head, giving him a skeptical look.

“What?” Glen asked, smirking now.

“I’m serious,” she said, her voice soft but firm. “I don’t want you to feel like I’m using you.”

His expression shifted, the teasing glint in his eyes softening. He stepped toward her, his hands settling lightly on her waist. 

“Gabby,” he said gently, his thumbs brushing against the fabric of her shirt. “I don’t think that at all. I wouldn’t have asked you over if I did.”

She let out a small sigh, her shoulders relaxing slightly, but he wasn’t done. 

“Look,” he continued, “it’s still early, yeah. But these are our dates. I was raised that the guy is supposed to pay on the dates”

Her eyes narrowed slightly as she raised a brow. “Supposed to?”

“Yup,” he said confidently, the corner of his mouth twitching into a grin.

“That’s such an old school thing.” She rolled her eyes, earning a low chuckle from him.

“Wait a second,” he said, his tone teasing as he tilted his head at her. “Did you just roll your eyes at me?”

Gabby met his gaze, challenging. “What if I did?”

His grin widened, and without another word, he leaned in, pressing his lips to the curve of her neck. She gasped softly as his warm breath ghosted against her skin, his voice low as he murmured, “Then I might have to make you take it back.”

Her laugh turned into a quiet hum as his kisses deepened, his hands sliding to her lower back to pull her closer. She threaded her fingers into his hair, and before she could think, Glen’s hands lifted her onto the counter.

Glen’s lips moved against hers with a growing urgency, his hands steady on her hips as he pulled her closer to the edge of the counter. Gabby’s fingers slid into his hair, tugging lightly as her breath hitched.

“Glen,” she managed between kisses, her voice soft and a little breathless.

“Hmm?” he hummed against her lips, his hands trailing to her thighs.

“The food,” she murmured, pulling back just enough to meet his eyes, though her hands didn’t leave his hair.

“What about it?” he asked, his voice low and rough, his forehead resting against hers as his hands tightened their hold on her.

“It’s going to get cold,” she pointed out, her tone half-hearted, as though she wasn’t entirely convinced it mattered.

Glen grinned, his lips brushing the corner of her mouth as he whispered, “I’m hungry for something else.”

Her laugh was soft and breathy, and she gave him a look that was equal parts amused and exasperated. “Glen,” she said again, her tone firmer this time, though the smile tugging at her lips betrayed her.

He groaned dramatically, letting his forehead drop to her shoulder as he sighed. 

“Fine,” he muttered, pulling back just enough to help her slide off the counter. “We can eat.”

Gabby smirked, smoothing her shirt as she stepped back toward the counter, her cheeks still flushed. “Thank you for your sacrifice.”

He shot her a playful glare as he grabbed the takeout containers, setting them on the counter with a bit more flair than necessary. 

“But just so we’re clear,” he said, his tone serious even as his lips quirked into a grin, “I’m coming back for dessert later.”

She didn’t respond, but the warmth in her smile and the quick glance she gave him said enough.

As they settled at the counter with their takeout containers spread out between them, the casual clinking of chopsticks and soft rustle of food filled the air. Glen cracked open the lid of his container and took a sniff. "Okay, this might be the best-smelling food I’ve ever had," he said, grabbing a generous bite.

Gabby raised an eyebrow as she poked at her dumplings. “You said that about the tacos we had last night.”

“Yeah, but this time I mean it,” he shot back, his mouth full enough to make her wrinkle her nose.

They ate in comfortable silence for a moment before Glen leaned his chin on his hand, watching her. “So, what’s your guilty pleasure food?”

Gabby paused mid-bite, considering. “Hmm. Probably mac and cheese. But like, the boxed kind. The neon orange powder stuff. None of that fancy baked nonsense.”

He laughed, his eyes crinkling at the corners. “I knew you were secretly a five-year-old.”

She gave him a mock glare. “Hey, don’t knock it till you’ve had it Mr. Won’t Eat Cheese. What about you?”

“Easy,” he said, without hesitation. “Pop-Tarts. Strawberry. No frosting.”

“No frosting?” she exclaimed, looking genuinely horrified. “What kind of monster eats Pop-Tarts without frosting?”

“This kind,” he said proudly, tapping his chest. “They’re better that way.”

“You’re objectively wrong,” she declared, shaking her head in mock disbelief.

“Guess we’ll have to agree to disagree.” He shrugged, reaching for another bite of pad Thai.

“Or,” she countered, narrowing her eyes, “you’ll have to come over for breakfast sometime and let me prove you wrong.”

His brows lifted in interest. “You’re challenging me to a Pop-Tart showdown?”

“Absolutely,” she said with a confident nod. “Frosted strawberry will change your life.”

Glen laughed, the kind of laugh that felt easy and genuine. “Alright, deal. But don’t cry when you realize you’ve been living a lie.”

“Yeah, okay,” she said, smirking. “We’ll see about that.”

The conversation drifted as they kept eating, dipping into lighter topics like movies they loved and places they wanted to visit someday. There was a warmth between them, the kind that made the night feel effortless, as though they’d been doing this for years rather than weeks.

When Gabby reached for the last dumpling, Glen swooped in with his chopsticks, snatching it right before she could.

“Hey!” she protested, staring at him in mock betrayal.

He grinned as he popped it into his mouth, chewing with exaggerated satisfaction. “You snooze, you lose.”

“You’re the worst,” she said, though her smile betrayed her.

“And yet, here you are,” he replied, leaning back in his seat with a triumphant grin.

After dinner, Gabby stood and started gathering up the empty containers, stacking them neatly as Glen leaned back against the counter, watching her with a satisfied smile.

“You don’t have to do that,” he said, crossing his arms over his chest.

“It’s no big deal,” she replied, waving him off as she carried the trash over to the bin. “You bought dinner, and wouldn’t let me pay for at least my share. So the least I can do is help clean up.”

She noticed a couple of dishes in the sink—a stray coffee mug and a plate from earlier in the day. Without hesitation, she rolled up her sleeves and started rinsing them off.

“Gabby,” Glen said, his tone warning, as he moved to stand behind her. “What are you doing?”

“Cleaning,” she answered simply, as though it were the most obvious thing in the world.

“This is my house,” he reminded her, stepping closer. “And my rules clearly state: no guests do chores.”

She glanced at him over her shoulder, raising an eyebrow. “Oh, is that so?”

“It is.” His voice held a playful firmness, but Gabby wasn’t one to back down easily.

“Well,” she said, turning back to the dishes and continuing to rinse, “I’m not a guest, technically. I’m more of a—what’s the term? Frequent flyer? That means the rule doesn’t apply to me.”

“Frequent flyer?” he repeated, amused. “You’re really stretching here, babe.”

“Call it what you want,” she quipped, reaching for the dish soap. “But I’m finishing these.”

Glen moved quickly, stepping close enough that she could feel the warmth of him at her back. She turned, ready to protest, but the look in his eyes stopped her. His brow lifted, silently telling her to drop it.

“Glen—”

Before she could say another word, he cupped her face and kissed her. It wasn’t rushed or heated, but slow and deliberate, his lips brushing hers just enough to make her heart stutter. He pulled back just slightly, their foreheads nearly touching.

“Let me do it,” he murmured, his voice low and coaxing.

Gabby blinked up at him, momentarily disarmed. “You’re using kissing to get your way now?”

“Maybe,” he admitted with a small smirk. “Is it working?”

She rolled her eyes, but her lips curved into a reluctant smile. “Fine. But only because you’re stubborn.”

“Stubborn and charming,” he corrected, taking the sponge from her hand and tossing it into the sink. “Now, go relax while I handle this.”

“You’re impossible,” she muttered, stepping aside.

“True,” he called over his shoulder as he began cleaning up the counter. “But you like me anyway.”

Gabby laughed, shaking her head as she leaned against the kitchen island. Watching Glen hum softly while he tidied up, she couldn’t help but think that, yes, she liked him—a little more than she cared to admit.

The evening slowly shifted into that quiet, comfortable lull that comes when two people are perfectly content in each other's company. Gabby was perched on the couch, her legs curled beneath her as she absently scrolled through a playlist on her phone, and Glen was sitting next to her, leaning back against the cushions with his arm draped casually along the backrest.

As the last song of her playlist faded, Glen glanced over at her, his hazel eyes warm but hesitant. “Hey,” he said softly, his tone different now—gentler, more deliberate.

Gabby turned to him, her head tilting slightly. “Yeah?”

His hand reached for hers, threading their fingers together as he gave a small smile. “Do you, uh… want to stay the night?”

Her heart gave a quick, surprised flutter. They’d spent plenty of time together over the last week, but this felt different—more significant, somehow.

“Are you sure?” she asked, her voice just above a whisper.

Glen gave her hand a soft squeeze and nodded, a hint of vulnerability breaking through his usual confidence. “Yeah. I want you here, with me.”

Gabby’s lips curved into a small smile as she nodded. “Okay,” she said simply.

He smiled back, relief flickering across his face, and stood, tugging her gently to her feet. 

“Come on,” he said, his voice dipping lower as he led her toward his bedroom.

Once inside, the atmosphere shifted. The soft glow of the bedside lamp cast warm, golden light across the room, making it feel cozy and intimate. Glen turned to face her, his hands resting lightly on her hips as she looked up at him, her breath catching.

He leaned in, his lips brushing hers in a soft, lingering kiss that quickly deepened. Gabby’s hands slid up to his chest, her fingers curling into the fabric of his shirt as he pulled her closer. The world outside seemed to fade as they got lost in each other, their movements slow and deliberate, as if they had all the time in the world.

Glen’s hands skimmed her sides, his touch firm but careful, and when he pulled back just enough to meet her gaze, his expression was tender. His lips found hers again, and this time there was no hesitation. The kiss turned hungrier, more urgent, as they backed toward the bed. Glen’s hands moved to the hem of her top, and when she nodded her silent permission, he carefully lifted it over her head and tossed it aside.

She mirrored his movements, her hands tugging at the fabric of his shirt until he pulled it off and let it drop to the floor. For a moment, they paused, their eyes locking as if to silently check in with each other.

“This all okay?” he asked softly, brushing a strand of hair from her face.

Gabby nodded again, a small, nervous laugh escaping her. Glen reached for her hand again, intertwining their fingers as he guided her gently toward the bed. The quiet confidence in his movements steadied the fluttering nerves that Gabby felt bubbling just beneath the surface. As the backs of her knees brushed the edge of the mattress, Glen paused, looking down at her as if he was committing every detail to memory—the soft curve of her lips, the way her hair framed her face, the trust in her eyes.

Still holding her hand, he leaned down, brushing his lips across hers in a kiss so gentle it sent shivers down her spine. She let out a soft sigh, her free hand moving instinctively to rest against his chest, her fingertips grazing the warmth of his skin.

Glen smiled against her lips, the corners of his mouth curving in that way that always made her heart skip. "You’re so beautiful," he murmured, his voice quiet but heavy with sincerity.

Gabby felt her cheeks flush, and she ducked her head slightly, unable to hide the small, bashful smile that tugged at her lips. “You’re just saying that,” she whispered.

He tipped her chin back up with a single finger, his eyes meeting hers. “I’m not,” he said firmly, his tone leaving no room for doubt.

Before she could reply, his lips captured hers again, this time with more urgency. As the kiss deepened, Glen’s hands found her waist, and he guided her back onto the bed, following her down until they were both lying against the soft comforter.

Gabby’s heart raced as Glen hovered above her, his weight supported by his arms on either side of her. His gaze swept over her, equal parts admiration and restraint, as if he wanted to take his time but was finding it harder with every passing second.

“You sure about this?” he asked softly, his voice low and almost reverent.

Her answer was immediate, her hands sliding up to cradle his face. “I’m sure,” she whispered, pulling him down for another kiss.

Glen’s lips moved from hers, tracing a slow, deliberate path along her jaw and down the curve of her neck. Gabby’s breath hitched as he lingered at the sensitive spot just below her ear, his warm breath sending a wave of goosebumps across her skin.

Her hands roamed over his back, exploring the planes of muscle there as he continued to press soft, heated kisses along her collarbone. When his lips found their way back to hers, her fingers tangled in his hair, pulling him closer.

As the kiss deepened, Glen’s hands began to move with quiet certainty, his fingers brushing over the waistband of her jeans. Gabby’s breath caught in her throat as she felt his gentle tug, pulling the fabric down over her hips. She hesitated for a brief second, her stomach tightening with a sudden, unfamiliar feeling.

The jeans were gone in seconds, but as he moved to remove her shirt, Gabby instinctively covered herself with her hands, suddenly aware of every inch of exposed skin. She felt a flush creep across her chest, her breath shallow as she avoided his gaze for just a moment.

Glen paused, noticing the shift in her energy. He lifted his eyes to meet hers, the tenderness in his gaze giving her an almost overwhelming sense of comfort.

“What’s wrong?” he asked softly, his hands still resting on her waist, the warmth of his touch grounding her.

Gabby shook her head quickly, trying to brush it off. “Nothing,” she said, offering him a half-smile. “Just… I don’t know. I’m fine.”

But Glen didn’t buy it. His brow furrowed in concern as he searched her eyes, sensing the unease she was trying to hide. His fingers gently cupped her face, urging her to meet his gaze.

“Gabs, hey,” he whispered, his voice low and reassuring. “Talk to me.”

She sighed, her body tensing under the weight of her vulnerability. She was used to being comfortable with Glen, but now–she felt exposed. And it terrified her.

“I just... I don’t know,” she said, her voice trailing off as she gestured at herself. “I’m not exactly—” She cut herself off, the insecurity creeping in again.

Glen’s eyes softened, and his expression changed to one of pure understanding. He moved slowly, deliberately, his hands trailing down her arms, coaxing her to relax. 

“You’re beautiful,” he whispered, brushing a strand of hair away from her face.

Gabby opened her mouth to protest, but he stopped her with a gentle finger to her lips.

“No,” he said, his voice firm but tender. “You are. And I’m not just saying that or because I’m your boyfriend or whatever else you were about to say.”

Her heart skipped a beat at the sincerity in his words, but she still felt that twinge of insecurity, the nagging thought that she didn��t look like the women in magazines or the ones she imagined he’d been with before.

But before she could say anything more, Glen lowered himself beside her, his lips finding the sensitive skin just below her ear. His kisses were slow, soft, and deliberate, each one trailing down her neck, over her collarbone, and slowly, carefully, down her chest.

“You’re so fucking beautiful,” he murmured between kisses, his voice thick with admiration. His lips moved lower, brushing across her stomach, and Gabby let out a shaky breath, her body shuddering with each kiss. “Every inch of you is beautiful,” he whispered against her skin.

Gabby closed her eyes, the warmth of his kisses and the sincerity in his words slowly melting away her insecurities. She felt his hands roam along her body, exploring her with such reverence that it felt like she was the only thing that mattered in the world. His lips, soft but insistent, found their way back to hers, kissing her.

Glen pulled away just slightly, his eyes meeting hers again. “You’re perfect, Gabby,” he said, his voice thick with emotion. “And you don’t need to be anything but yourself for me.”

Gabby’s chest tightened, a lump forming in her throat. The vulnerability, the raw honesty between them, made her heart swell in a way she wasn’t prepared for. She reached for him, pulling him back down into a kiss, letting her hands wander over his back, feeling the heat of his skin, grounding herself in the reality of this moment.

It was slow and tender, the kind of kiss that felt like more than just passion—it was a promise. A promise that, despite her insecurities, she was worthy of this, of him.

Glen’s hands were steady as he slowly slid her underwear down her legs, his gaze never leaving hers. She inhaled sharply, the tension between them thickening, her heart beating faster. When she was completely exposed to him, she couldn’t help but glance down, her eyes tracing the line of his body as he undressed. The sight of him—completely bare—made her pulse quicken.

Once he was bare before her, he leaned down, the muscles in his back rippling with the movement. He crawled back onto the bed, his body brushing against hers as he kissed her again, slow and deliberate, his lips trailing over hers in a heated, tender kiss. Gabby’s breath caught in her throat as she felt the weight of him, all of him, pressing closer, and yet there was an undeniable gentleness in the way he kissed her.

He slid his hand up to her face, cupping it softly as their lips moved together. She kissed him back with an intensity of her own, her hands running up and down his back, feeling every inch of the muscles she had admired from a distance. She couldn’t help but smile against his lips, that nagging insecurity from earlier slowly melting away with every kiss, every touch, every second they spent together.

Glen pulled back just slightly, his forehead resting against hers. He was breathing deeply, his chest rising and falling as he smiled softly at her. “You good?” he whispered, his voice low and husky.

Gabby nodded, her hands sliding down his chest, feeling the heat of his skin under her fingertips. “I’m good,” she replied, her voice barely above a whisper. And for the first time in a while, she truly felt it—good, real, safe.

Glen pulled away just slightly, his hand moving to the nightstand. Gabby watched him curiously, but then understood when she saw the small box in his hand. He looked at her for a moment, his expression soft but serious.

Gabby nodded. Glen carefully opened the box and retrieved a condom, a quiet moment of practicality amidst the heat of the moment. He gave her a reassuring smile as he slid it on.

"Still sure about this?" he whispered, his forehead resting against hers. Gabby nodded, feeling more at ease now that she knew they were both on the same page.

"Yeah," she murmured, smiling up at him, appreciating the care he’d shown. "I’m sure."

As Glen positioned himself above her, he moved slowly, giving her time to adjust. When he finally slid into her, both of them paused.

Gabby’s breath hitched as she felt the initial stretch, a slight discomfort making her eyes flutter shut. She’d imagined this moment, but the reality was different—more intimate, more overwhelming. She could feel herself tense, it having been a while since she’d been with anyone.

But then, Glen’s hands found her face, his thumb brushing gently across her cheek. His voice was soft, almost a whisper, as he murmured against her ear, “You’re doing great. Just breathe, babe. I’ll go slow.”

His words grounded her, bringing her focus back to him. His presence was calm and steady, and the tenderness in his gaze told her everything she needed to know. Slowly, the discomfort eased, and Gabby let out a breath she hadn’t realized she was holding.

Glen’s hands moved to her waist, helping her adjust as he began to move, slowly at first, giving her the space she needed. Every inch of him was careful, focused on her, his eyes locked on hers as if he were waiting for any sign that she needed a break. “Tell me if you need me to stop,” he murmured, his lips brushing against her ear.

Gabby’s breath was shallow, but with each movement, the discomfort slowly faded, replaced by something deeper, something more intense. She wrapped her arms around him, pulling him closer, her hands gripping his back as she began to meet his movements, urging him on.

Glen kissed her forehead, his lips soft against her skin, whispering more reassurances as they moved together. His voice was hoarse with the effort of holding back, his movements becoming more urgent but still patient, still focused on making sure she was okay.

Gabby, feeling the heat building between them, nodded, her body responding to his in a way that made her forget about the earlier discomfort. 

“I’m okay now. You can go faster,” she whispered back, her voice barely audible, but it was enough.

Glen’s pace quickened then, his movements more desperate. As the tension built, Gabby found herself spiraling, lost in the sensation, and with one final whisper of his name, she reached the peak, her body trembling beneath him.

He followed soon after, his name leaving her lips in a breathless moan as they both rode out their highs together.

After Glen collapsed beside her, pulling her close as they both tried to catch their breath, their bodies tangled together beneath the soft covers. Gabby nestled into his chest, her head resting against his shoulder, and for a long moment, neither of them spoke.

But the silence was comfortable, filled with the soft sounds of their breathing, the warmth of their bodies pressed together.

“You okay?” Glen finally asked his hand tracing patterns along her back.

Gabby smiled, a soft, contented sigh escaping her lips. 

“Yeah,” she whispered, her voice full of warmth and trust.

After the shared silence of their embrace, Glen gently pressed a kiss to Gabby’s forehead before slipping out of bed. His movements were slow, and careful, as if not wanting to disturb the peace between them. 

“I’ll be right back,” he whispered, and she nodded, her eyes closing as she listened to the soft sounds of him moving around the room.

When he returned, he held a t-shirt in his hand, the soft fabric looking a little worn, the familiar scent of him still lingering on it. 

“Here,” he said, offering it to her with a warm smile. “Figured you might want something to wear.”

Gabby glanced up at him, still feeling the warmth from their shared moment. She took the shirt from him, fingers brushing against his as she did. “Thanks,” she murmured softly, feeling a little shy now that the raw intensity of the moment had passed.

She slid off the bed and moved toward the bathroom, using the restroom and freshening up before returning to him. When she came back, she saw Glen had pulled on a pair of sweatpants, and was now laying on the bed.

Gabby put on her underwear and then slipped into the oversized shirt Glen had given her, the cotton fabric falling just past her thighs.

She crawled back into bed, settling next to him, feeling the softness of the sheets beneath her. Glen shifted, making space for her, then wrapped an arm around her waist, pulling her close. His touch was light, almost protective as if wanting to ensure she felt safe and cherished.

Gabby snuggled into his chest, the warmth of his body lulling her into a sense of peace. She couldn’t remember the last time she’d felt this comfortable with someone. The vulnerability they’d shared earlier still lingered between them, but now it was wrapped in the softness of intimacy, trust, and care.

“You okay?” Glen asked quietly, his voice soft and steady as his fingers gently traced circles on her back.

Gabby looked up at him, her eyes meeting his with a smile that reached her eyes. “Yeah,” she said, her voice low but filled with contentment. “I’m really good, Glen. Thanks for… everything.”

He smiled down at her, his eyes soft with affection. “Anytime,” he murmured, kissing her forehead gently.

They lay there in comfortable silence for a while, the only sound between them the gentle rhythm of their breathing, the quiet peace that came from being close to someone who truly cared. Gabby closed her eyes, letting the weight of the moment wash over her, feeling safe, seen, and, for the first time in a long time, completely at ease.

Glen didn’t say anything more, but his hand gently stroked her hair, a tender gesture that spoke louder than any words could. And as she drifted off to sleep in his arms, she couldn’t help but think that this—this was exactly what she needed, what she had been longing for without even knowing it.

[michaelstatham]

60 + Funny Birthday wishes for younger brother

1. Happy Birthday, little bro! Remember, you’re not just a year older, but a year closer to becoming the grumpy old man you always joke about.

2. Congrats on your birthday! Don’t worry about getting older; you’re still younger than the way you act!

3. Happy Birthday! Just think, you’re not getting older—you’re leveling up! And by the way, level 25 means you have to start pretending to be responsible now.

View Original

4. Happy Birthday to my favorite partner in crime! I would say you’re the best brother ever, but that might be a lie. Let’s just stick with ‘I’m stuck with you’ for now.

5. Wishing my younger brother a very happy birthday! You’re now officially at the age where you need to start worrying about the things you say to people who can remember them.

6. Happy Birthday! I was going to get you a super awesome gift, but then I realized you’re already stuck with me as your sibling. Looks like you’re all set!

7. Congrats on surviving another year with me as your sibling. That should count as a superpower! Have an amazing birthday, superhero!

8. Happy Birthday to the only person who knows all my secrets—and still somehow manages to look up to me. Here’s to another year of being the best little brother ever!

9. Cheers to my younger brother! May your day be filled with cake, presents, and zero reminders of how you’re no longer a ‘kid’ but a full-grown adult who still acts like a kid.

Must Read And Wish: 20 + Islamic birthday wishes for a brother

10. Happy Birthday! Not that you’re ancient, but if you were a vehicle, you would be considered a classic. Hope you have a fantastic day, vintage model!

11. Happy Birthday! Remember, age is just a number. In your case, it’s a really high one, but who’s counting?

12. Happy Birthday, bro! I was going to get you something awesome, but then I realized you already have me as a sibling. What more could you ask for?

13. Congratulations on getting older! Don’t worry, you’re still young enough to blame your mistakes on being ‘a kid’—for a little while longer, anyway.

14. Happy Birthday to my younger brother! You’re not getting older, just more experienced. Or at least that’s what I’m telling myself so I don’t feel old!

15. Let’s laugh at our own jokes and keep each other sane for a whole year more! Happy Birthday, bro! Let’s make it one to remember (or at least forget)!

16. Happy Birthday to my partner in crime and my favorite troublemaker! I’d say you’re the best little brother in the world, but that might be an exaggeration. You’re definitely in the top two!

17. Happy Birthday! You know you’re getting older when you start getting excited about socks and underwear. Hope your birthday is as awesome as those new socks will be!

18. Cheers to another year of having me as your sibling. It’s basically a lifelong adventure with unlimited pranks and embarrassing moments. Enjoy every minute of it!

19. Happy Birthday! I’d make a joke about your age, but I’m too busy making sure you don’t find the hidden party supplies before the big reveal.

20. Happy Birthday, little bro! I would have gotten you something really amazing, but then I realized you’re already surrounded by amazingness—me!

21. Happy Birthday! You’re not getting older, just more distinguished… like a fine cheese that’s been left out a bit too long.

22. Congrats on another trip around the sun! Just remember, every birthday is a new chapter in your life’s book—and this one is a pop-up book with lots of surprises!

23. Happy Birthday to the only person who still gets excited about toys and video games at their age. Keep living the dream, bro!

24. Happy Birthday! If anyone asks, you’re still in your ‘experimental phase.’ You know, like a mad scientist—just without the lab coat and explosions.

25. Wishing my younger brother a birthday that’s as fantastic as you think you are. Spoiler: that’s really fantastic!

26. Happy Birthday! I’d call you ‘young and naïve,’ but you’re not quite that young anymore. Just stick with ‘young at heart’ and enjoy the cake!

27. Cheers to another year of being awesome! Don’t worry about getting older; just remember you’re not a real adult until you can complain about back pain.

28. Happy Birthday! If you’re feeling old, just remember that you still have a few years left before you start looking like our parents!

29. Happy Birthday! You’re like a fine wine—getting better with age, but also making us all wonder how you’re still able to stay so goofy.

30. Happy Birthday, little bro! You know you’re getting older when the candles on your cake cost more than the cake itself. Enjoy the fire hazard!

31. Happy Birthday, bro! You’re not just a year older, you’re also a year closer to getting your own Netflix account and not having to share it with me!

32. Congrats on another year of being amazing! I guess that means I have to keep up the ‘awesome sibling’ act. No pressure!

33. Happy Birthday! If you think getting older is tough, just remember: you’re still younger than you’ll be next year!

34. Here’s to a birthday as great as the time you borrowed my stuff and didn’t return it. Oh wait, that’s every day! Have an awesome one!

35. Happy Birthday to the person who knows all my secrets and still loves me anyway. Or at least pretends to!

36. Happy Birthday! I hope your day is filled with all the things you love—like cake, presents, and zero responsibility.

37. Congratulations on being another year older! You’re younger than you will be the following year, at least. Enjoy your youth while it lasts!

38. Happy Birthday! You’re now officially old enough to start pretending to be mature. Have fun with that!

39. Cheers to my little brother! Don’t worry about getting older; you’re still younger than your next big birthday!

40. Happy Birthday! If life were a video game, you’d just leveled up. Time to unlock new achievements and maybe some new adult responsibilities!

41. Happy Birthday! You’re like a fine wine, getting better with age—except you’re more likely to give people headaches after a few too many.

42. Here’s to another year of you being younger than me! Don’t worry, I’ll always be here to make you feel old.

43. Happy Birthday, little bro! If you start feeling old, just remember: I’ll always be here to remind you how much older I am.

44. Congrats on your special day! If anyone asks, I’m your favorite sibling. The finest birthday present I can offer you is that!

45. Happy Birthday! Don’t let getting older get you down. It’s just nature’s way of reminding you to appreciate how awesome you are!

46. Happy Birthday, bro! Just keep in mind that you are leveling up, not aging. Too bad you still have to deal with me as your sibling!

47. Congrats on surviving another year with me as your sibling! Your prize? A birthday filled with love, cake, and all the embarrassing stories I can dig up.

48. Happy Birthday! You know you’re getting older when you start to get excited about things like a new phone case or a comfy chair. Enjoy the small things!

49. Wishing my younger brother a birthday full of joy and minimal nagging from me. Okay, who am I kidding? The nagging’s included!

50. Happy Birthday! Don’t worry about the number of candles on your cake. Just think of it as more evidence of how awesome you’ve become over the years.

51. Happy Birthday! If you feel like you’re getting old, just remember: I’ve been around longer, so I’m basically a pro at it. Let’s party anyway!

52. Cheers to you, little bro! Another year older, another year wiser. Alternatively, we will inform Mom and Dad of that!

53. Happy Birthday! The good news is, you’re still younger than me. The bad news? You’re now old enough to understand all my jokes!

54. Congratulations on your birthday! I would have gotten you something amazing, but then I realized you already have me as a sibling. Consider that your gift!

55. Happy Birthday! I was going to give you something really special, but then I realized that having me as a sibling is pretty much the ultimate gift.

56. Happy Birthday! If you’re feeling old, just remember that every year you get older, I’m just that much more awesome as your sibling. You’re welcome!

57. Happy Birthday! You’re not old; you’re just well-seasoned. Like a fine pizza or a well-aged cheese. Enjoy your day, you classic!

58. Happy Birthday to my favorite troublemaker! Here’s to another year of causing mischief and pretending to be responsible adults!

59. Cheers to you on your birthday! If you need me to remind you how young you are, just let me know. It’s my job to keep you humble!

60. Happy Birthday! I’m so glad you’re my younger brother because it means I get to be the bossy one. Here’s to another year of me being the best sibling ever!

61. Happy Birthday! You’re now officially at the age where your back might start hurting just from picking up your birthday cake. Enjoy every moment, old man!

62. Congrats on your birthday! You’re not old—you’re just well-seasoned, like that one pair of socks you refuse to throw away. Here’s to many more years of ‘classic’ style!

[sherrywarraich]

60 + Funny Birthday wishes for younger brother

1. Happy Birthday, little bro! Remember, you’re not just a year older, but a year closer to becoming the grumpy old man you always joke about.

2. Congrats on your birthday! Don’t worry about getting older; you’re still younger than the way you act!

View Original

3. Happy Birthday! Just think, you’re not getting older—you’re leveling up! And by the way, level 25 means you have to start pretending to be responsible now.

4. Happy Birthday to my favorite partner in crime! I would say you’re the best brother ever, but that might be a lie. Let’s just stick with ‘I’m stuck with you’ for now.

5. Wishing my younger brother a very happy birthday! You’re now officially at the age where you need to start worrying about the things you say to people who can remember them.

6. Happy Birthday! I was going to get you a super awesome gift, but then I realized you’re already stuck with me as your sibling. Looks like you’re all set!

7. Congrats on surviving another year with me as your sibling. That should count as a superpower! Have an amazing birthday, superhero!

8. Happy Birthday to the only person who knows all my secrets—and still somehow manages to look up to me. Here’s to another year of being the best little brother ever!

9. Cheers to my younger brother! May your day be filled with cake, presents, and zero reminders of how you’re no longer a ‘kid’ but a full-grown adult who still acts like a kid.

10. Happy Birthday! Not that you’re ancient, but if you were a vehicle, you would be considered a classic. Hope you have a fantastic day, vintage model!

11. Happy Birthday! Remember, age is just a number. In your case, it’s a really high one, but who’s counting?

12. Happy Birthday, bro! I was going to get you something awesome, but then I realized you already have me as a sibling. What more could you ask for?

13. Congratulations on getting older! Don’t worry, you’re still young enough to blame your mistakes on being ‘a kid’—for a little while longer, anyway.

Funny Birthday wishes for younger brother

14. Happy Birthday to my younger brother! You’re not getting older, just more experienced. Or at least that’s what I’m telling myself so I don’t feel old!

15. Let’s laugh at our own jokes and keep each other sane for a whole year more! Happy Birthday, bro! Let’s make it one to remember (or at least forget)!

16. Happy Birthday to my partner in crime and my favorite troublemaker! I’d say you’re the best little brother in the world, but that might be an exaggeration. You’re definitely in the top two!

17. Happy Birthday! You know you’re getting older when you start getting excited about socks and underwear. Hope your birthday is as awesome as those new socks will be!

18. Cheers to another year of having me as your sibling. It’s basically a lifelong adventure with unlimited pranks and embarrassing moments. Enjoy every minute of it!

19. Happy Birthday! I’d make a joke about your age, but I’m too busy making sure you don’t find the hidden party supplies before the big reveal.

20. Happy Birthday, little bro! I would have gotten you something really amazing, but then I realized you’re already surrounded by amazingness—me!

21. Happy Birthday! You’re not getting older, just more distinguished… like a fine cheese that’s been left out a bit too long.

22. Congrats on another trip around the sun! Just remember, every birthday is a new chapter in your life’s book—and this one is a pop-up book with lots of surprises!

23. Happy Birthday to the only person who still gets excited about toys and video games at their age. Keep living the dream, bro!

24. Happy Birthday! If anyone asks, you’re still in your ‘experimental phase.’ You know, like a mad scientist—just without the lab coat and explosions.

25. Wishing my younger brother a birthday that’s as fantastic as you think you are. Spoiler: that’s really fantastic!

26. Happy Birthday! I’d call you ‘young and naïve,’ but you’re not quite that young anymore. Just stick with ‘young at heart’ and enjoy the cake!

27. Cheers to another year of being awesome! Don’t worry about getting older; just remember you’re not a real adult until you can complain about back pain.

28. Happy Birthday! If you’re feeling old, just remember that you still have a few years left before you start looking like our parents!

29. Happy Birthday! You’re like a fine wine—getting better with age, but also making us all wonder how you’re still able to stay so goofy.

30. Happy Birthday, little bro! You know you’re getting older when the candles on your cake cost more than the cake itself. Enjoy the fire hazard!

31. Happy Birthday, bro! You’re not just a year older, you’re also a year closer to getting your own Netflix account and not having to share it with me!

32. Congrats on another year of being amazing! I guess that means I have to keep up the ‘awesome sibling’ act. No pressure!

33. Happy Birthday! If you think getting older is tough, just remember: you’re still younger than you’ll be next year!

34. Here’s to a birthday as great as the time you borrowed my stuff and didn’t return it. Oh wait, that’s every day! Have an awesome one!

35. Happy Birthday to the person who knows all my secrets and still loves me anyway. Or at least pretends to!

36. Happy Birthday! I hope your day is filled with all the things you love—like cake, presents, and zero responsibility.

37. Congratulations on being another year older! You’re younger than you will be the following year, at least. Enjoy your youth while it lasts!

38. Happy Birthday! You’re now officially old enough to start pretending to be mature. Have fun with that!

39. Cheers to my little brother! Don’t worry about getting older; you’re still younger than your next big birthday!

40. Happy Birthday! If life were a video game, you’d just leveled up. Time to unlock new achievements and maybe some new adult responsibilities!

41. Happy Birthday! You’re like a fine wine, getting better with age—except you’re more likely to give people headaches after a few too many.

42. Here’s to another year of you being younger than me! Don’t worry, I’ll always be here to make you feel old.

43. Happy Birthday, little bro! If you start feeling old, just remember: I’ll always be here to remind you how much older I am.

44. Congrats on your special day! If anyone asks, I’m your favorite sibling. The finest birthday present I can offer you is that!

45. Happy Birthday! Don’t let getting older get you down. It’s just nature’s way of reminding you to appreciate how awesome you are!

46. Happy Birthday, bro! Just keep in mind that you are leveling up, not aging. Too bad you still have to deal with me as your sibling!

47. Congrats on surviving another year with me as your sibling! Your prize? A birthday filled with love, cake, and all the embarrassing stories I can dig up.

48. Happy Birthday! You know you’re getting older when you start to get excited about things like a new phone case or a comfy chair. Enjoy the small things!

49. Wishing my younger brother a birthday full of joy and minimal nagging from me. Okay, who am I kidding? The nagging’s included!

50. Happy Birthday! Don’t worry about the number of candles on your cake. Just think of it as more evidence of how awesome you’ve become over the years.

51. Happy Birthday! If you feel like you’re getting old, just remember: I’ve been around longer, so I’m basically a pro at it. Let’s party anyway!

52. Cheers to you, little bro! Another year older, another year wiser. Alternatively, we will inform Mom and Dad of that!

53. Happy Birthday! The good news is, you’re still younger than me. The bad news? You’re now old enough to understand all my jokes!

54. Congratulations on your birthday! I would have gotten you something amazing, but then I realized you already have me as a sibling. Consider that your gift!

55. Happy Birthday! I was going to give you something really special, but then I realized that having me as a sibling is pretty much the ultimate gift.

56. Happy Birthday! If you’re feeling old, just remember that every year you get older, I’m just that much more awesome as your sibling. You’re welcome!

57. Happy Birthday! You’re not old; you’re just well-seasoned. Like a fine pizza or a well-aged cheese. Enjoy your day, you classic!

58. Happy Birthday to my favorite troublemaker! Here’s to another year of causing mischief and pretending to be responsible adults!

59. Cheers to you on your birthday! If you need me to remind you how young you are, just let me know. It’s my job to keep you humble!

60. Happy Birthday! I’m so glad you’re my younger brother because it means I get to be the bossy one. Here’s to another year of me being the best sibling ever!

61. Happy Birthday! You’re now officially at the age where your back might start hurting just from picking up your birthday cake. Enjoy every moment, old man!

62. Congrats on your birthday! You’re not old—you’re just well-seasoned, like that one pair of socks you refuse to throw away. Here’s to many more years of ‘classic’ style!

[partyglimpse]

60 + Funny Birthday wishes for younger brother

1. Happy Birthday, little bro! Remember, you’re not just a year older, but a year closer to becoming the grumpy old man you always joke about.

2. Congrats on your birthday! Don’t worry about getting older; you’re still younger than the way you act!

3. Happy Birthday! Just think, you’re not getting older—you’re leveling up! And by the way, level 25 means you have to start pretending to be responsible now.

4. Happy Birthday to my favorite partner in crime! I would say you’re the best brother ever, but that might be a lie. Let’s just stick with ‘I’m stuck with you’ for now.

5. Wishing my younger brother a very happy birthday! You’re now officially at the age where you need to start worrying about the things you say to people who can remember them.

6. Happy Birthday! I was going to get you a super awesome gift, but then I realized you’re already stuck with me as your sibling. Looks like you’re all set!

7. Congrats on surviving another year with me as your sibling. That should count as a superpower! Have an amazing birthday, superhero!

8. Happy Birthday to the only person who knows all my secrets—and still somehow manages to look up to me. Here’s to another year of being the best little brother ever!

9. Cheers to my younger brother! May your day be filled with cake, presents, and zero reminders of how you’re no longer a ‘kid’ but a full-grown adult who still acts like a kid.

10. Happy Birthday! Not that you’re ancient, but if you were a vehicle, you would be considered a classic. Hope you have a fantastic day, vintage model!

11. Happy Birthday! Remember, age is just a number. In your case, it’s a really high one, but who’s counting?

12. Happy Birthday, bro! I was going to get you something awesome, but then I realized you already have me as a sibling. What more could you ask for?

13. Congratulations on getting older! Don’t worry, you’re still young enough to blame your mistakes on being ‘a kid’—for a little while longer, anyway.

Funny Birthday wishes for younger brother

14. Happy Birthday to my younger brother! You’re not getting older, just more experienced. Or at least that’s what I’m telling myself so I don’t feel old!

15. Let’s laugh at our own jokes and keep each other sane for a whole year more! Happy Birthday, bro! Let’s make it one to remember (or at least forget)!

16. Happy Birthday to my partner in crime and my favorite troublemaker! I’d say you’re the best little brother in the world, but that might be an exaggeration. You’re definitely in the top two!

17. Happy Birthday! You know you’re getting older when you start getting excited about socks and underwear. Hope your birthday is as awesome as those new socks will be!

18. Cheers to another year of having me as your sibling. It’s basically a lifelong adventure with unlimited pranks and embarrassing moments. Enjoy every minute of it!

19. Happy Birthday! I’d make a joke about your age, but I’m too busy making sure you don’t find the hidden party supplies before the big reveal.

20. Happy Birthday, little bro! I would have gotten you something really amazing, but then I realized you’re already surrounded by amazingness—me!

21. Happy Birthday! You’re not getting older, just more distinguished… like a fine cheese that’s been left out a bit too long.

22. Congrats on another trip around the sun! Just remember, every birthday is a new chapter in your life’s book—and this one is a pop-up book with lots of surprises!

23. Happy Birthday to the only person who still gets excited about toys and video games at their age. Keep living the dream, bro!

24. Happy Birthday! If anyone asks, you’re still in your ‘experimental phase.’ You know, like a mad scientist—just without the lab coat and explosions.

25. Wishing my younger brother a birthday that’s as fantastic as you think you are. Spoiler: that’s really fantastic!

26. Happy Birthday! I’d call you ‘young and naïve,’ but you’re not quite that young anymore. Just stick with ‘young at heart’ and enjoy the cake!

27. Cheers to another year of being awesome! Don’t worry about getting older; just remember you’re not a real adult until you can complain about back pain.

28. Happy Birthday! If you’re feeling old, just remember that you still have a few years left before you start looking like our parents!

29. Happy Birthday! You’re like a fine wine—getting better with age, but also making us all wonder how you’re still able to stay so goofy.

30. Happy Birthday, little bro! You know you’re getting older when the candles on your cake cost more than the cake itself. Enjoy the fire hazard!

31. Happy Birthday, bro! You’re not just a year older, you’re also a year closer to getting your own Netflix account and not having to share it with me!

32. Congrats on another year of being amazing! I guess that means I have to keep up the ‘awesome sibling’ act. No pressure!

33. Happy Birthday! If you think getting older is tough, just remember: you’re still younger than you’ll be next year!

34. Here’s to a birthday as great as the time you borrowed my stuff and didn’t return it. Oh wait, that’s every day! Have an awesome one!

35. Happy Birthday to the person who knows all my secrets and still loves me anyway. Or at least pretends to!

36. Happy Birthday! I hope your day is filled with all the things you love—like cake, presents, and zero responsibility.

37. Congratulations on being another year older! You’re younger than you will be the following year, at least. Enjoy your youth while it lasts!

38. Happy Birthday! You’re now officially old enough to start pretending to be mature. Have fun with that!

39. Cheers to my little brother! Don’t worry about getting older; you’re still younger than your next big birthday!

40. Happy Birthday! If life were a video game, you’d just leveled up. Time to unlock new achievements and maybe some new adult responsibilities!

41. Happy Birthday! You’re like a fine wine, getting better with age—except you’re more likely to give people headaches after a few too many.

42. Here’s to another year of you being younger than me! Don’t worry, I’ll always be here to make you feel old.

43. Happy Birthday, little bro! If you start feeling old, just remember: I’ll always be here to remind you how much older I am.

44. Congrats on your special day! If anyone asks, I’m your favorite sibling. The finest birthday present I can offer you is that!

45. Happy Birthday! Don’t let getting older get you down. It’s just nature’s way of reminding you to appreciate how awesome you are!

46. Happy Birthday, bro! Just keep in mind that you are leveling up, not aging. Too bad you still have to deal with me as your sibling!

47. Congrats on surviving another year with me as your sibling! Your prize? A birthday filled with love, cake, and all the embarrassing stories I can dig up.

48. Happy Birthday! You know you’re getting older when you start to get excited about things like a new phone case or a comfy chair. Enjoy the small things!

49. Wishing my younger brother a birthday full of joy and minimal nagging from me. Okay, who am I kidding? The nagging’s included!

50. Happy Birthday! Don’t worry about the number of candles on your cake. Just think of it as more evidence of how awesome you’ve become over the years.

51. Happy Birthday! If you feel like you’re getting old, just remember: I’ve been around longer, so I’m basically a pro at it. Let’s party anyway!

52. Cheers to you, little bro! Another year older, another year wiser. Alternatively, we will inform Mom and Dad of that!

53. Happy Birthday! The good news is, you’re still younger than me. The bad news? You’re now old enough to understand all my jokes!

54. Congratulations on your birthday! I would have gotten you something amazing, but then I realized you already have me as a sibling. Consider that your gift!

55. Happy Birthday! I was going to give you something really special, but then I realized that having me as a sibling is pretty much the ultimate gift.

56. Happy Birthday! If you’re feeling old, just remember that every year you get older, I’m just that much more awesome as your sibling. You’re welcome!

57. Happy Birthday! You’re not old; you’re just well-seasoned. Like a fine pizza or a well-aged cheese. Enjoy your day, you classic!

58. Happy Birthday to my favorite troublemaker! Here’s to another year of causing mischief and pretending to be responsible adults!

59. Cheers to you on your birthday! If you need me to remind you how young you are, just let me know. It’s my job to keep you humble!

60. Happy Birthday! I’m so glad you’re my younger brother because it means I get to be the bossy one. Here’s to another year of me being the best sibling ever!

61. Happy Birthday! You’re now officially at the age where your back might start hurting just from picking up your birthday cake. Enjoy every moment, old man!

62. Congrats on your birthday! You’re not old—you’re just well-seasoned, like that one pair of socks you refuse to throw away. Here’s to many more years of ‘classic’ style!

[phoenixgreen]

German lore for u guys

1. probably the Baltic Sea. I lived on a boat there for a while and I still visit every year. It’s just beautiful

2. at Home! Definitely

3. yes, only on the north coast but we a have two different seas there. the Baltic Sea and the north sea

4. I don’t love most german food but even I aren’t immune to a Schnitzel

5. Alles ist Neu by Peter Fox. Absolute banger. Legendary status (or Major Tom, close second)

6. Oof, many. Probably 99 Luftballons just because it’s way to popular and because I don’t like the singer 🤷‍♂️

7. Wahnsinn (Madness), Lurch (a kind of lizard), Sterne (Stars)

8. well, yeah. Germans mostly look like every other white people group on earth so 🤷‍♂️ with all of em I suppose

9. I would love to check out the Netherlands and Denmark more, even tho I visited before. I am probably most familiar with Switzerland, Austria, Poland and France

10. Hurensohn :) (very basic but very good, translates to son of a whore)

11. I Love Frank Schätzing. He writes mostly extremely realistic sci fi novels and is just amazing in his research (he wrote “The swarm”, it’s crazy good and scars, you will never see the ocean with the same eyes again)

12. haven’t seen many but most of them are fine I think. I have a personal beef with the translation of Major Tom tho. But that’s mostly because it feels like they tried to steal this song from us and pretend it was always English lol

13. My family isn’t big into traditions or superstitions but I guess our humor might seem strange to outsiders. German humor in general is probably not for everyone. It’s a pretty British with much sarcasm and stuff. I eat it up tho

14. No. Only good thing we ever produced was Dark and that’s it (ok that’s a bit exaggerated but I really don’t wanna talk about our television stuff. I vastly prefer German YouTube, they are mostly fantastic)

15. Bruder muss los (“Brother I have to go”, I honestly don’t know how to explain this meme or how it’s used. It’s really just if you get it you get it lmao)

16. I hate that most people seem to think all of Germany is essentially Bavaria (beer, dirndles, yodeling etc.). It is true tho, that we love our bread. I Love bread. Bread is amazing

17. While I don’t think any country in the world could have a boring history, I think Germany is a special case. It is practically impossible not to be at least a little interested in our history as a German. So yeah, I am. Not just interested in the Nazi part tho. Our history with the Roman’s is crazy

18. Maybe a tiny one? I was often told my English sounded more like someone from Britain or Australia so not that much I think.

19. I am indifferent to flag and song

20. Soccer. By far. No competition in sight. (If Germany ever fell into civil war it would be oder soccer teams)

21. Definitely some of our amazing bread. And maybe a piece of the Berlin Wall

22. I probably don’t need to tell you what every German is ashamed about (or at least the vast majority of germans, not the other kind…). I am proud however of everything that came after (not everything everything, I mean the uniting part) and I really really think german people for the most part have a very unique way of seeing our place in the world and how to handle national pride. It’s a VERY harsh contrast to the USA. If we ever were to be forced to pledge ourselves to the nation in school we would think the old times were back like wtf why are u guys doing that 😭

23. Beer

24. France (we don’t like the French, no European country likes the French lmao)

25. Actually no. I am pretty comfortable and even tho I have my fair share of problems (especially regarding politics and growing right radicalization) I am really happy living here

26. Well. Most of the time we are Nazis in Hollywood xD I don’t know if I should count that as I don’t like the portrayal or not. I mean, I don’t like nazis either so good for every movie who gets that right. I have the feeling tho, that we don’t exist much outside of that tho. It’s either - no germans in the movie or - germans in the movie and they are nazis (or the movie hast something to do with one of the world wars)

27. Otto. One of the most iconic comedians. Not all of his humor aged super well (he is pretty old at this point) but he was my childhood idol. (And if we count internet personality’s, probably “coldmirror” she made the most iconic Harry Potter parody synchros ever and is just in general the reason why my humor is the way it is now)

28. Yeah, we have a lot a lot. My fav lake is just the lake in my hometown. Could walk 5 minutes down to the little beach. Wonderful place

29. Oh yeah xD I live in Brandenburg - the state surrounding Berlin. And we hate each others guts. Berlin thinks Brandenburg is nothing but forest and old timy farmer culture while Brandenburg thinks Berlin is arrogant and wierd (Berlin is the New York City of Germany.) Oh and everyone hates Bavaria and Bavaria hates everyone else 👍

30. Nope. I would love to but I was born into a pretty standard German family. My grandmothers side of the family grew up in Poland but in a time where parts of it still belonged to Germany so they weren’t technically polish.

“hi, I’m not from the US” ask set

given how Americanised this site is, it’s important to celebrate all our countries and nationalities - with all their quirks and vices and ridiculousness, and all that might seem strange to outsiders.

1. favourite place in your country?

2. do you prefer spending your holidays in your country or travel abroad?

3. does your country have access to sea?

4. favourite dish specific for your country?

5. favourite song in your native language?

6. most hated song in your native language?

7. three words from your native language that you like the most?

8. do you get confused with other nationalities? if so, which ones and by whom?

9. which of your neighbouring countries would you like to visit most/know best?

10. most enjoyable swear word in your native language?

11. favourite native writer/poet?

12. what do you think about English translations of your favourite native prose/poem?

13. does your country (or family) have any specific superstitions or traditions that might seem strange to outsiders?

14. do you enjoy your country’s cinema and/or TV?

15. a saying, joke, or hermetic meme that only people from your country will get?

16. which stereotype about your country you hate the most and which one you somewhat agree with?

17. are you interested in your country’s history?

18. do you speak with a dialect of your native language?

19. do you like your country’s flag and/or emblem? what about the national anthem?

20. which sport is The Sport in your country?

21. if you could send two things from your country into space, what would they be?

22. what makes you proud about your country? what makes you ashamed?

23. which alcoholic beverage is the favoured one in your country?

24. what other nation is joked about most often in your country?

25. would you like to come from another place, be born in another country?

26. does your nationality get portrayed in Hollywood/American media? what do you think about the portrayal?

27. favourite national celebrity?

28. does your country have a lot of lakes, mountains, rivers? do you have favourites?

29. does your region/city have a beef with another place in your country?

30. do you have people of different nationalities in your family?